Bio-Weingut H.u.M Hofer Zweigelt, Niederosterreich, Austria

Dark cherry, red berries, savory spice, and delicate herbs open with a juicy, distinctly Austrian red-fruit character. 2021 Bio-Weingut H.u.M Hofer Zweigelt is a dry, organically farmed expression of one of Austria’s signature red varieties, grown by the Hofer family around Auersthal in the southern Weinviertel. Its balance of ripe fruit, spice, and supple tannin reflects Hermann Hofer’s focus on varietal clarity and a family farming philosophy centered on working closely with nature.

Product Details:

• Owners: Hermann & Maria Hofer
• Winemaker: Hermann Hofer
• Farming: Certified organic
• Soil: Predominantly sandy loam and loess-loam with some clay across the estate

Sensory Description:

Dark cherry and lively red berries lead the aromatics, followed by savory spice and restrained herbal tones. The palate is juicy and fruit-driven, with ripe cherry character carried by a supple structure and fine, velvety tannins. Subtle spice and herbs provide additional dimension without obscuring the fruit, leading to a balanced, softly textured finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Bio-Weingut H.u.M Hofer is a family-run estate in Auersthal in Austria’s Weinviertel, operated by Hermann and Maria Hofer with their family. Hermann is responsible for winemaking, while the family works together across the vineyards and estate. The Hofers began voluntarily farming according to organic principles in the 1990s and have maintained certified organic agriculture since 2001. Their vineyard philosophy excludes chemical pesticides and fertilizers and emphasizes soil health and biodiversity, with sheep also used in the vineyards to help manage vegetation. Grüner Veltliner dominates the estate, while Zweigelt is its principal red variety and an important part of the family’s organically farmed range.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 15 to 17 degrees Celsius in a medium-sized red wine glass to emphasize the wine’s fresh cherry fruit, spice, and supple tannins. Its juicy, moderate structure makes it a versatile partner for roast chicken, grilled pork, sausages, schnitzel, mushroom dishes, tomato-based pasta, pizza, roasted vegetables, or semi-firm cheeses.