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The destiny of Blaufränkisch is to unite!
© Anna Stöcher
This red grape variety has complex aromas, a refreshingly lively acidity and the talent to unmistakably reflect the soil in which it was grown. It is little wonder that Blaufränkisch has become the darling of sommeliers and is conquering the hearts of the wine world as it climbs to the top of wine ratings’ platforms. But more excitement is in store: 20 central European regions will jointly present their most exciting Blaufränkisch wines to date at the VieVinum wine fair in May.
Blaufränkisch, Lemberger, Kékfrankos, Frankovka or Modra Frankinja – the names are as complex and multi-layered as the grape variety itself. At Central Europe's leading wine fair, VieVinum, in Vienna’s Hofberg (16 to 18 May), producers from the most important countries of origin will join forces and unite under the common banner ‘United Nations’.
Eventful history & bright future
What was once divided by the Iron Curtain is now united by Blaufränkisch wine. In the heart of Vienna, at the intersection of Eastern and Western Europe, wineries from eight countries and more than twenty regions will come together:
Hungary
Austria
Germany
Czechia
Slovakia
Croatia
Slovenia
Romania
The Hofburg, the centre of the Habsburg Monarchy, provides the perfect backdrop. The Blaufränkisch growing region roughly mirrors the extent of the former Austro-Hungarian empire. Whether Frankovka in Istria (Croatia), Blaufränkisch in Leithaberg (Austria), Kékfrankos on Lake Balaton (Hungary) or Modra Frankinja in Štajerska (Slovenia), few varieties can reflect their terroir as clearly in the wine as this one.
This quality is appreciated by critics the world over. “Most [Blaufränkisch] are fashioned in such a way as to express their place of origin rather than chase a narrowly defined varietal character or winemaking style,” observes Julia Harding MW from JancisRobinson.com.
Blaufränkisch does not just have a long tradition, but also a bright future. This late-ripening variety is able to withstand the challenges of climate change, coping just as well with rising temperatures as it does with long dry spells. Thanks to its lively acidity, it remains refreshing, aromatic and precise even after several heat waves. This makes Blaufränkisch perfectly in tune with the spirit of the times.
Unparalleled Blaufränkisch tasting opportunity
Nowhere else can you find such a wide variety of Blaufränkisch wines as at United Nations of Blaufränkisch. From world-renowned wineries to small producers, from the cool northern border of the European wine-growing zone to the Mediterranean, from conventional to funky: Blaufränkisch is truly multifaceted.
Those interested in specific countries, wine styles or producers have the opportunity to plan an individual tasting within the multilateral association at VieVinum. Please send enquiries by email to e.aftin@wine-partners.at
Burgundy admirers, Blaufränkisch fans
From underdog to insider tip, rustic local wine to an internationally established top variety: Blaufränkisch is no longer a niche phenomenon, but one of the favourite standards in wine recommendations, especially among younger experts.
A summit in the Austrian alpine resort of Lech am Arlberg in 2022 also contributed to the wine's outstanding reputation in the wine world today. Top international wine figures including Jancis Robinson discussed the variety’s status and future at the Blaufränkisch Summit, including the question of whether Blaufränkisch should be counted among the world's great grape varieties. Dorli Muhr, initiator of the ‘United Nations of Blaufränkisch’, provides a clear answer:
© Anna Stoecher
“The leading figures in the industry agree that Blaufränkisch is one of the world's great grape varieties and can be considered on a par with Pinot Noir, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.”
With one small caveat, perhaps – the expert panel in Lech concluded that Blaufränkisch only ranks among the best when yields are low and after several years of bottle ageing. “This variety is not suitable for mass-produced wines.“
Blaufränkisch unites Europe
With growing winemaker confidence, internationally acclaimed premium wines and collaboration, this grape variety is now increasingly found among the world's highest-rated red wines and on the wine lists of top restaurants.
“For me, Blaufränkisch is one of the most exciting grape varieties in Europe,” enthuses Austrian Master Sommelier Alex Koblinger, who has also worked in the USA, England and the United Arab Emirates. “Hardly any other variety has shown such impressive development in recent years – in terms of precision, expression of origin and stylistic diversity. This is why Blaufränkisch is at the top of sommeliers' lists, especially in the restaurant industry. Tt combines structure, freshness and depth, making it one of the most versatile wines to accompany food.”
INFO
Date: Saturday 16 May - Monday 18 May 2026
Location: VieVinum, Hofburg Lounge in the Vienna Hofburg
Languages: English / German
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