The Zierfandler is a very interesting variety with long-lasting white wines, but it only occurs on around 85 hectares of vineyards in the thermal region near Vienna. It was created from a completely natural cross between Roter Veltliner and a variety belonging to the Traminer family, which has not yet been specified further. The Zierfandler places high demands on the location, but less on the soil itself and is quite susceptible to sour rot and powdery mildew. The fact that its yields are very irregular also makes it difficult to grow. Its ripening period ranges from medium to long. The Zierfandler, also known regionally as Spätrot, is preferably blended with another white wine specialty from the thermal region: the Rotgipfler. In some places, both varieties are grown, harvested and processed together. Its wines are rich in extracts, mild and smooth, and noble sweet wines can also be made from it if the climate is favorable. In addition to Austria, Hungary also has a small, very limited area of vineyards for this variety.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Cirfandli, Zierfandler/Spätrot, Spätrot
