Photo by VIVC - Vitis International Variety Catalogue
Description
Kékfrankos, known in Austria as Blaufränkisch and in Germany as Lemberger, is Hungary's most widely planted red grape, and about half of the world's Kékfrankos grows in Hungary. It is a natural cross of Blaue Zimmettraube and Gouais Blanc and probably arose in present-day Austria. It was first recorded in the mid-1800s. Sopron and Szekszárd are its key districts. Its dry reds are fruity and spicy, with lively acidity and medium tannins.
Characteristics
Black wine grape; medium, moderately dense bunches; medium, thick-skinned berries with light bloom; fruity, spicy red wine with lively acidity; ripens late September to October; vigorous and productive; good winter bud hardiness
Growing Tips
Kékfrankos grows fast and crops heavily, so thin the bunches in summer to keep the crop in balance with the vine. In a bud-hardiness study in Eger it was the most cold-tolerant of the four varieties tested. It ripens late, so a sunny position helps. Plan a normal spray routine against downy and powdery mildew.