Wines Carnuntum DAC Markowitsch - Ried Kirchweingarten - 2022

The Cuvée Ried Kirchweingarten 2022 from Weingut Markowitsch is a dry red wine from the Carnuntum DAC appellation, in the winegrowing region of Niederösterreich, Austria. This cuvée typically features a blend of indigenous and classic grape varieties, emblematic of the region’s approach to red wines. In 2022, the wine presents a deep ruby appearance and offers a modern, fruit-forward style marked by ripe black cherry, plum, and subtle spice aromas. The palate is round and vibrant, balancing fresh acidity with soft, ripe tannins and a gentle touch of oak from partial barrel aging, ensuring structure and finesse.

Carnuntum, located east of Vienna along the Danube, has gained a reputation for producing some of Austria’s most accomplished red wines. The region benefits from a Pannonian climate, which brings warm, dry summers and cool nights—ideal for developing complex, aromatic grapes while retaining freshness. The soils are diverse, with loess, gravel, and sand contributing minerality and elegance to the wines. Viticulture here has a storied past: the area was first cultivated under Roman occupation, and today’s winemakers blend heritage with innovation, making Carnuntum a reference point for Austrian reds.

This wine’s vibrant fruit and nuanced structure make it a fine companion to a range of dishes. Locally, it pairs beautifully with Wiener Schnitzel if you prefer red over white, but truly shines alongside Tafelspitz (boiled beef), roasted duck, venison, or Szegediner goulash. Grilled lamb, herby poultry, or Mediterranean vegetables also suit the wine’s versatile, juicy personality. For cheese, opt for semi-hard styles like Gruyère or a mild mountain cheese.

Best enjoyed slightly below room temperature to preserve its freshness and aromatic intensity, serve this red at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help the wine reveal its full bouquet and texture, especially in its youthful 2022 vintage.