Weingut Krutzler is a benchmark estate in Eisenberg, a small DAC in Austria's Südburgenland along the Hungarian border. Now in its fifth generation, Clemens Krutzler works alongside his family to preserve the estate's signature style: iron-rich, site-driven Blaufränkisch built on elegance rather than heavy extraction. The vineyards sit on steep slopes of slate and iron-rich clay where cool Alpine air meets warm currents off the Pannonian plain, giving the wines their distinctive mineral tension. Farming is sustainable, and the winemaking favors a light touch that lets the vineyard speak.

This 2024 bottling is Krutzler's entry point into the Eisenberg style, hand-harvested and fermented with gentle, temperature-controlled care in stainless steel and large neutral oak casks. Skipping new wood keeps the fruit bright, so the wine shows the crunchy red-fruit character and peppery lift typical of youthful Blaufränkisch. The result is an energetic, laser-focused red with fine-grained tannins and a long, slaty finish that speaks clearly of Eisenberg's terroir.

Why You'll Love It

• A pure introduction to Austrian Blaufränkisch and the Eisenberg DAC, and a compelling alternative for fans of Northern Rhône Syrah or crunchy cru Beaujolais.
• Aromas of dark sour cherry, wild blackberry, crushed red plum, white pepper, and a whisper of forest flowers.
• Vibrant natural acidity cuts through the medium body, giving the wine real lift and mouthwatering freshness.
• A savory, slightly herbal finish carries a cool, stony mineral drive straight from the Eisenberg slopes.
• Approachable now with no need to cellar it, making it an easy, versatile pour at the table.

How To Serve It

• Serve slightly cool, 58-62°F, to keep the berry fruit and peppery spice vivid.
• A short 20 to 30 minute decant, or a vigorous swirl in the glass, opens up the high-toned aromatics.
• Pour into Burgundy stems to give the perfumed fruit and delicate spice room to expand.
• Try it with smoked paprika goulash and caraway spätzle, grilled sausages, or roasted duck breast.