Blaufränkisch Warrior

The Family Saga Continues

 Silvia Heinrich - Deutzkreutz - Austria.

Back in 2018, when I started my WSET studies in Rust, Austria, I stumbled into a whole new world — not just of grapes, but of people.

One of the most memorable encounters happened at a school event where I met Silvia Heinrich. She runs her family's pride and joy in the little town of Deutschkreutz, just south of Sopron.

Her father has spent a lifetime — decades of sweat and stubborn work — building a winery the whole family can be proud of. And though Silvia has now taken the reins, her father is still in the cellar at 75 years old, sleeves rolled up, quietly shaping the future he worked so hard to create.

Running Late but Worth It

That day's adventure started a little… off schedule.

I'd spent a few too many hours in deep wine-nerdery with a winemaker in Sopron and suddenly found myself pressed for time.

Visiting Silvia had been the plan all along, but by the time I boarded the train across the border, I knew I'd be lucky to get 45 minutes before their tasting room closed.

Turns out, timing worries disappear fast when you're welcomed like an old friend.

A Warm Welcome and Blaufränkisch Talk

Within minutes of walking in, Silvia and her cellar master had me tasting through their lineup — my beloved Blaufränkisch front and center.

Somewhere between the first swirl and the second glass, we realized how much shared experience can clear the way for younger generations to create freely — as long as they've got the right guidance.

Then came a small but fascinating dilemma.

The team had to submit two samples of Blaufränkisch for an international tasting:

• One aged in subtle, untreated oak, giving finesse and quiet depth.
• Another in heavily toasted barrels, where smoky notes strutted right up front.

They asked for my take. I won't pretend my vote carried world-shaking weight, but we debated seriously, laughed a little, and shook hands warmly in the end.

Tradition With a Human Heart

The cellar master himself had a story. His late mother had been a close friend of Silvia, and Silvia had brought him into the winery — giving him not just a job, but a purpose.

It was one of those moments that reminds you: family tradition isn't just about keeping a name on the door. It's about passing down opportunity, belief, and a reason to keep building.

Grateful for the Time

I'm a fan — not just of the wines, but of the way this family works: respectful of the past, brave about the future, and warm enough to welcome a slightly frazzled traveler who almost missed the train.

Thank you, Silvia. I hope to share another glass — and another good debate — soon.