Blauburger
Blauburger is an Austrian-born crossing bred for color and softness—think of it as Blaufränkisch’s gentler, darker cousin, often used to enhance color and roundness in blends.
Varietal Origin: Blauburger was created in Austria in 1923 by Dr. Fritz Zweigelt, the same breeder behind Zweigelt. It’s a cross between Blaufränkisch and Blauer Portugieser, combining the structure of the former with the fruitiness of the latter.
Typical Taste Profile: Blauburger produces deeply colored, medium-bodied wines with soft tannins and a smooth mouthfeel. Flavors tend toward dark berries like blackberry and black cherry, often with notes of plum, violets, gentle spice, and subtle earthiness. It’s approachable young and rarely oaked, emphasizing fruit purity.
Regional Styles: Often used in blends to deepen color and soften tannins, though increasingly made as a varietal wine showcasing juicy, plush fruit and elegant structure in Austria & Hungary
