The spelling of the word "Lemberger" may seem confusing, but it follows the rules of English orthography. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈlɛmbɚɡər/. The initial "l" is followed by the "e" sound, as in "pet". The "m" and "b" sounds are consecutive, as in "member". The final "er" is pronounced as the schwa sound, which is the most common vowel in English. Despite its unusual spelling, Lemberger is a type of wine that originated in Austria.
Lemberger, also known as Blaufränkisch, is a red wine grape variety originating in Eastern Europe. It is predominantly cultivated in regions such as Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Slovenia, where it thrives in cool climate conditions. Lemberger is highly esteemed for producing quality red wines that are noted for their deep color, fruity flavors, and unique spicy characteristics.
In terms of its appearance, Lemberger grapes feature small to medium-sized berries with a dark blue-black hue. The wines made from this varietal generally exhibit intense red or purple shades, reminiscent of black cherries. On the nose, Lemberger wines are known for their aromatic qualities, often presenting notes of red berries, plums, black currants, and hints of spice, such as black pepper or cinnamon.
Lemberger wines typically display a medium to full body, with moderate tannins and vibrant acidity, which contributes to their excellent aging potential. The flavors on the palate can vary, but often include a combination of ripe dark fruits, earthy undertones, and subtle herbaceousness. The spiciness of Lemberger wines sets them apart from other red grape varieties, offering a distinctive profile that wine enthusiasts appreciate.
In culinary terms, Lemberger wines are excellent choices to accompany a variety of dishes. Due to their versatility, they pair well with roasted meats, game, grilled vegetables, and aged cheeses. The inherent spiciness and bold flavors of Lemberger wines make them a delightful choice for those seeking a unique and engaging tasting experience.
The word "Lemberger" is derived from the town of Lemberg (Lwów in Polish, Lviv in Ukrainian), which is now situated in Ukraine. Historically, Lemberg was part of the Austrian empire, and the name "Lemberger" was likely given to the wine produced from grapes grown in that region. The grape variety itself is known by different names in various regions, such as Blaufränkisch in Austria and Kékfrankos in Hungary. However, "Lemberger" is the common term used for this wine variety in the United States, especially in Washington State, where it is grown extensively.