2018 Weingut Prieler Blaufränkisch “Marienthal”, Leithaberg, Austria

ABOUT THE WINE

Marienthal is one of the historic Blaufränkisch sites near Lake Neusiedl, where the limestone slope descends toward Oggau. Prieler’s parcel rests on marine limestone and, for the 2018 bottling, the vines averaged about 30 years. The family waited until 2011 to release a separate Marienthal wine, giving the replanted vineyard time to mature before presenting it on its own.

The 2018 was fermented in a closed tank with a submerged cap and four weeks of maceration, then matured for 20 months in 500-liter oak barrels. The extended skin contact builds structure, while the larger barrels give that structure time to develop. Dark berry fruit meets juniper, bay leaf and spice, with leather and cocoa adding savory complexity. The palate is concentrated and firmly framed, with polished tannins rather than a soft, weightless texture.

We suggest roast duck, venison with juniper, or braised beef with mushrooms. These dishes give the wine’s savory character and substantial tannins a fitting partner.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

The Prieler estate in Schützen am Gebirge was once a mixed farm. Engelbert and Irmgard Prieler shifted its focus toward quality wine production in 1972; their daughter Silvia and subsequently their son Georg continued that work. The family’s vineyards lie between the Leitha Mountains and Lake Neusiedl, where varied limestone, loam and schist soils create markedly different growing sites.

Organic practices, cover crops, careful pruning and canopy management underpin the estate’s approach. Repeated selection at harvest helps balance ripeness with freshness. Georg’s focus on Blaufränkisch and Burgundian varieties reflects both the region’s traditions and the potential of its individual vineyards. Cellar decisions, including the choice of maturation vessel, are tailored to the character of each wine.