Weingut Claus Preisinger Basic

Gols, Neusiedlersee, Burgenland, Austria
$22-26

Claus Preisinger is one of Austria’s hottest winemakers. Youthful, driven, modern, consciousness and innovative – his aim is to create that typify terroir. His vineyards are completely biodynamic, and his focused portfolio is centered around the Zweigelt grape. Preisinger is part of a small Gols based group of winemakers called Pannobile – formed to honour indigenous grape varietals. Together the group makes wines as a cooperative under the Pannobile name to preserve the unique character of their region.

This wine, however, is pure Claus. The red’s appeal starts with the label. Striking in its stylized simplicity (line the labels up threefold and you’ll see Claus’ signature), the modern packaging is in contrast to the wine’s old-world roots. Nettle and manure enrich the soil and well-worn barrels preserve the fruit character. According to Claus, “I take whatever the grapes bring, and then I try to put that right into the bottle – pure, low-tech, instinctive, completely natural.”

Not so Basic. Here a blend of Pinot Noir cousins Zweigelt & St. Laurent come together like close family in this fresh, lively and light red. Mildly perfumed cranberry, salted plum, and young blackberry on the nose, the juicy palate has flavours of earth, bright cherry and spiced tea notes. Soft tannins and a beauty balance make this great with or without food. We enjoyed it over Margherita Pizzeria Primastrada (extra arugula please!) or would be a natural with wild salmon.

If you can’t find Basic (check www.farmsteadwines.com for leads) look for other Claus Preisinger bottles on this market including the red Heideboden (Zweigelt, Blaufrankisch, St. Laurent, Merlot) and white Heideboden (Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay) and his Zweigelt Pannobile (Zweigelt and Blaufrankisch).

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