Certified biodynamic blend of Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt from the Ungerberg. Rosenberg, Altenberg and Setz vineyards. Soils are sandy and clay with some chalk. Matured for 20 months in used barrique barrels.
Pannobile is the individual interpretation of a mutual brainchild. Created by the nine members of the eponymous winemaker-collective, Pannobile is an idea which has stood the test of time. Sense of place and grape variety - or better grape varieties - of the region take centre stage. And – an unwritten rule of our group - it is at least a couple of them; in our special case Blaufränkisch & Zweigelt make up equal parts. However, depending on the vintage, this emphasis can change. We choose our grapes from separately fermented batches of our best vineyards between Weiden and Gols which we taste meticulously before we combine them. Zweigelt provides a broad and succulent body which is balanced by the muscles and dynamics of the Blaufränkisch. Ageing takes place on the lees in used barriques and 500-litre wooden barrels for around 18 months.
The new Pannobile is evidence that 2016 was a brilliant year for blithe, subtle and invigorating wines. The flavours are precise: red-berried and gently highlighted by herbal insinuations. The mouthfeel is cool and delicate, shaped by a fresh and vital acidity and firm tannins. The body unifies elegance and energy and gives way to a focused and multi-layered finish.
Pittnauer's wines are elegant, structured, complex and beautifully drinkable - qualities that were highlighted when Gerhard was named 2014 Winemaker of the Year by Falstaff magazine. This, the highest accolade in Austrian wine, shows just how far the Pittnauers have come. It also goes some way to showing what a fiercely gifted individual we have on our hands. But then everything -from the Pitti blend, through the vivid addition-free wines and right up to the devastatingly good single vineyards - will pretty much tell you the same thing.