Blauburger

Blauburger is an increasingly interesting grape variety for UK vineyards, representing a small but dedicated effort by English wine producers to experiment with lesser-known red varieties suited to cooler climates. This Austrian origin grape was created in the 1920s by crossing Blauer Portugieser with Blaufränkisch, combining the best qualities of both parent varieties to create a robust red wine grape that has found unexpected success in southern England.

The Blauburger grape produces deeply coloured wines with good tannin structure and moderate acidity, making it particularly suitable for the English climate where maintaining proper ripeness can be challenging with more demanding varieties. In UK conditions, Blauburger typically produces medium to full-bodied red wines with notes of dark berries, plum and subtle spice characteristics. The variety tends to ripen reasonably early, giving it an advantage in cooler British summers and reducing the risk of poor maturation that affects later-ripening grapes.

With only two UK vineyards currently cultivating Blauburger, both located in the South East region, this grape variety represents a niche but promising addition to English viticulture. What makes these plantings particularly noteworthy is that both vineyards operate as certified organic or biodynamic producers, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices that complement the natural adaptability of this grape variety. This organic approach to growing Blauburger in England reflects the broader trend in UK wine production toward environmentally conscious methods.

While none of the UK Blauburger vineyards are currently open to public visits, wine enthusiasts interested in tasting English-produced Blauburger wine should contact these producers directly to enquire about direct purchases. The rarity of Blauburger in the UK makes these wines particularly special for collectors and those seeking unique English wine experiences that showcase the versatility of British viticulture beyond traditional Champagne varieties and popular still wines.