Wines Unspecified Weingut Pittnauer - Velvet

Viniou Reviews

Pittnauer’s Cuvée Velvet is an intriguing Austrian red from the Burgenland region, made with a biodynamic approach that places a premium on balance and respect for the environment. While the specific blend of grapes isn’t detailed, Velvet typically combines native Austrian varietals like Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, and occasionally St. Laurent—each contributing to a wine that is supple, vibrant, and expressive. Being non-vintage, it offers consistency across releases, emphasising fruit-forward character and easy-drinking charm. The wine is known for its aromatic bouquet of red cherries, violets, and a subtle earthiness, underscored by gentle tannins and a lively acidity, resulting from careful, low-intervention vinification designed to preserve fruit purity and texture.

Burgenland is one of Austria’s most acclaimed wine regions, lying to the east near the Hungarian border, and is especially noted for its reds. The climate here is influenced by the warm, shallow lake Neusiedlersee, which moderates temperatures and extends the growing season, promoting full ripening of grapes without sacrificing balance. The soil composition is diverse, with layers of sand, gravel, and clay, providing excellent drainage while imparting minerality and vibrancy to the wines. Historically, Burgenland has shifted from a focus on sweet to red wines over the past few decades, and the region is now a reference for elegant, fruit-driven reds with a distinct sense of place.

Pairing Pittnauer’s Cuvée Velvet is a pleasure thanks to its supple profile and energetic freshness. Local Austrian fare such as Wiener Schnitzel, roasted duck, or even Tafelspitz would harmonise beautifully, as would Mediterranean dishes like grilled aubergine, ratatouille, or herbed roast chicken. The wine’s vivid fruit and subtle spice also allow it to accompany spiced lamb koftas or even lighter pasta dishes featuring tomato and olives.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 14-16°C. Decanting for 20 minutes will help open its aromatic complexity, but the wine is ready to offer pleasure straight from the bottle. It’s best enjoyed slightly chilled to highlight its lively fruit and refined texture.