Lemberger is a technical grape variety originating from Central Europe, possibly from France or Austria. The vines of this variety are vigorous, with large dark green or dark blue leaves, sometimes with a vinous-red margin. The clusters are broad-conical, dense, medium to large-sized, with black or dark blue berries possessing juicy flesh. The variety is characterized by late ripening and high, stable yield, growing well on humus-carbonate soils, but sensitive to mildew and oidium.
Lemberger grape is widely used for red wine production, as well as for juice making and fresh consumption. Juice yield from berries is about 75%, with sugar content reaching 15-22.6 g/100 ml, and acidity ranging from 6.8 to 8.9 g/l. Wines from this variety are distinguished by fine structure, light acidity, and rich aroma, featuring notes of black chocolate, raspberry, forest berries, cherry, and spices.
The Lemberger variety is known by various synonyms such as Lemberger, Kekfrankosch, Gme, Frankovka, Modra Frankinja, and Franconia, and is widely cultivated in Austria, Hungary, the USA, and other countries. It is often used in blends with other varieties, such as Zweigelt, Cabernet, and Merlot, allowing the creation of wines with diverse flavor and aromatic profiles.
