Lemberger is the German name of the grape Austrians call Blaufraenkish. Although quite popular in Austria as a varietal wine, in Germany, winemakers blend it with Trollinger to render it lighter in texture and more aromatic.
Blaufranksich in Austria yields a dark, tannic wine in need if many years of cellaring to become smooth and enjoyable. Curiously, Lemberger ( a k a Limberger) is popular in both Washington State and Oregon with considerable acreage. Here it yields a soft dark, fruity wine, enjoyable a year or two after bottling.
Article contributed by Hrayr Berberoglu, a Professor Emeritus of Hospitality and Tourism Management specializing in Food and Beverage. Books by H. Berberoglu
