Judith Beck Out Red Blend 2018

Out is Judith Beck's entry-level red blend from Gols, in the Neusiedlersee sub-region of Burgenland. The name is deliberate: Beck describes it as "out of appellation, free natural wine" — the Zweigelt and Blaufrankisch blend falls outside the Neusiedlersee DAC's Zweigelt-only rules, so it is labeled simply as Burgenland. Grapes come from biodynamically farmed vineyards with vines averaging 15 years of age, planted on sandy limestone soils known locally as Seewinkelschotter.

Fermentation is spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, beginning in stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged in used neutral acacia barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally, contributing to the wine's soft texture. Sulfite additions are minimal, at or near 10 mg/L total.

The result is a bright, medium-bodied red with soft tannins, lively acidity, and fruit-forward character — strawberry, plum, and raspberry with a spicy, savoury finish from the Blaufrankisch component. It is meant to be approachable young, served slightly cool, and consumed without ceremony.