2022 Claus Preisinger Bonsai

WINEMAKER: Claus Preisinger
REGION: Burgenland, AT
VARIETY: Blaufränkisch
VITICULTURE: Certified Biodynamic

The grapes for this wine stem from tiny vines that remind one of 'Bonsai' trees, hence the name. This is a game changing version of Blaufrankisch. Its short whole bunch maceration has made a wine more reminiscent of jura pinot than of the grapes classic iterations. Aged in amphora.

Claus Preisinger’s winery is nestled in the village of Gols by Lake Neusiedlersee in Burgenland. Claus first started making wine with this father as a hobby, but after working with Hans Nittnaus, a neighbouring winemaker for a few years, decided that wine was his true calling. In 2004 he was one of the founding members of the Pannobile group of winemakers, a group that uses respect for the land and terroir to preserve traditions in Burgenland. His first vintage was in 2000, and since then he has expanded his father’s 3 hectares to the 17 hectares of vines he cultivates today. His vineyard work is meticulous and he is deeply in touch with his land. He uses a mixture of techniques including homeopathic teas, compost from cattle and horses and works strictly from Steiner philosophies. His vines are spread across 58 parcels and are largely planted to indigenous varieties such as Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent.