In 2004 Birgit Braunstein was crowned "Winzerin des Jahres" by the Austrian gastronomical revue "Wo isst Österreich". Up until now this is the high point in a career that started in the mid-nineties, when Birgit took over the winery of her father in Purbach am See.
The vineyards, with a surface of about 20 acres, are to be found in the most beautiful locations of the "Hügelland" next to the "Neusiedler See". In the West they are protected by the Leitha mountains, the necessary coolness is produced by the Neusiedler See.
The region is especially known for its reds, that have the "Burgenland" appellation. The Blaufränkisch is the most widely grown grape in the region and is characterized by its spiciness and structure.
The red wines of the Weingut Braunstein are so to say buried under prizes and recognition. And rightly so, as far as we are concerned.

The Blaufränkisch is a typical Centraleuropean grape, thickly skinned, bringing forth dark and tanninic red wines. It is the most popular red grape in the Burgenland. Purple red. A very spicy aroma: clove, cinammon, blackberries. Dense fruit in the flavour, very spicy with a hint of pepper (although the alcohol is perfectly under control).

The St. Laurent grape originates from France but is currently mostly cultivated in Germany (especially in the Pfalz) and Austria. The grape has found its finest expression in the Burgenland region: the typically intense cherry aroma and flavour, a complex minerality. Very dark and dense. A very special nose of cherries, kirsch liquor, thime, bay-tree and lots of minerals. A mouthful of cherry marmelade, ending by sweet and discrete tannins. A very complex wine that nevertheless proves to be very accessible.

This is an absolutely top class red Austrian wine, having won numerous prizes in various competitions. A cuvée of Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Blaufränkisch has the reputation of being a variety that is fitted for blending, and rightly so! A very spicy nose. Flavour is extremely concentrated but very round, nicely spiced, a bit of graphite. The very noble tannins dominate the end.