2020 Lutzmannsburg Blaufränkisch Alte Reben, Weingut Moric, Burgenland, Austria

The Blaufränkisch Burgenland 2020 Lutzmannsburg Alte Reben comes from the oldest vines in Lutzmannsburg, which includes not only the three crus that had been singled out in 2019 but also other crus here that are too small to market them separately. This wine delivers all the ripeness, fruit intensity and concentration that Moric has been known for for almost 20 years. The wine is less precise or transparent compared to the crus, but it's dense and complex on the nose (and palate), which is ethereal and spicy and immediately begs for a decanter. Here, the wine is rich, textured and elegant, unfolding its greatness only on the finish that leaves the concentration and power of the first palate for purity, mineral freshness and endless salinity. Tannins, acidity and phenolics as well as body and concentration are in great balance here, yet at this early stage, the wine needs a lot of space and time to breathe and reveal its secrets step by step. This is definitely a wine to cellar for years, just like Clos Nouveau Bourgueil from Gauthier. That means this old-vines Lutzmannsburger may reach an even greater drinking experience in 10 years. I wouldn't miss it. 13.5% stated alcohol. Tasted in Lech in December 2022. 96+ points Stephan Reinhardt