Central Europe's signature black grape. Concentrated dark fruit is framed by lively acidity and black-pepper spice. Its tannins are firm yet fine-grained, and it reflects its soil with great clarity. It is known as Lemberger in Germany and Kékfrankos in Hungary.
The name "Fränkisch" is thought to come from the medieval term for noble "Frankish" grapes. Long grown along the Danube basin, in Austria it also became a parent of Zweigelt. Once mostly made as light everyday wine, since the 1990s Burgenland growers focusing on old vines and soil have reestablished it as a serious red capable of long ageing.
Its firm acidity handles rich meat dishes with ease. Served a little cool, the fruit and pepper come forward, and it pairs well with Japanese dishes seasoned with sansho or shichimi. A grape to try if you are looking for something between Pinot Noir and Syrah.