Frankovka is a grape variety originating from Central Europe, possibly from France or Austria. The vines of this variety are vigorous with well-ripening canes. The leaves are large, entire, smooth, dark green with a wine-red border, and curved like a trough. The clusters are broadly conical or medium-sized, dense, with dark blue, round berries having juicy flesh where acidity and sweetness are harmoniously combined. Yield is high, and the variety has a late ripening period.
Frankovka is widely distributed in Central and Eastern European countries, including Austria, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and Croatia. In different regions, the variety is known under synonyms Lemberger, Kekfrankosch, Blaufrankisch, Gamy, Modra Frankinya, and Franconia. The grapes are used mainly for the production of red wines, which are characterized by intense color, medium density, and a fruity profile with aromas of black fruits and pepper. In Hungary, the famous wine Egri Bikaver is made from Frankovka.
This variety prefers guano-carbonate soils, on which it develops well despite sensitivity to diseases such as mildew and oidium. The juice yield from the berries is about 75%, while the stems account for about 3.9%, and the skins, dense parts, flesh, and seeds for about 21.1%. Wines made from Frankovka have a light acidity, good structure, and tones of forest berries or cherries, which makes them attractive for both fresh consumption and for making juices and quality red wines.
