At a glance

Producer

Judith Beck

Region

Burgenland, Austria

Grape variety

Blaufränkisch

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35

Tasting profile

Dark cherry and blackcurrant fruit, peppery spice, and smoky mineral notes. Tannins are pronounced but well integrated.

Evolution: Over the next 3-5 years will reveal more complexity with earth, leather, and subtle floral undertones.

At peak: Rich, layered, harmonious with polished tannins and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, fresh and balancing

Tannins

Medium to high, firm and gripping

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

10-12+ years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2024 to 2034

Current status

Approaching early maturity with good structure

Current condition

Youthful tannins, vibrant acidity, requires some decanting

Ink 2021 is crafted from Blaufränkisch, known for its structure and acidity. The vintage was healthy with good ripeness, allowing the wine to develop complexity over a decade. Balanced acidity and firm tannins support long aging, with peak drinking from 6-11 years from vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled game meats, hearty stews, roasted vegetables, dishes with black pepper and herbs like thyme.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow tannins to soften and aromas to open fully.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Judith Beck utilizes sustainable viticulture with cover crops, manual harvest, minimal intervention in the cellar, energy-efficient systems for heating/cooling, water conservation measures, and recycled packaging materials.

The producer demonstrates strong commitment to organic farming and sustainability principles. Energy and water conservation efforts further enhance their environmental profile. Carbon emissions from transportation are moderate but partially offset by efficient logistics.