Austrian term for a partially fermented grape must that must come exclusively from grapes harvested and processed in Austria. It is derived from the "stormy" sound of the carbonated drink. It is an EU-wide origin-protected, traditional term, which is why it must be labelled with a country wine origin (Bergland, Steirerland or Weinland). The alcohol content must be at least 1.0% vol. Due to the potential for continued fermentation, this can increase to 10% alcohol by volume, which is usually prevented by refrigeration. The total alcohol content may not exceed 13.5% vol (white) or 14.5% vol (red).
Mainly early-ripening grape varieties are used for production. Popular varieties include Bouvier, Müller-Thurgau, Perle von Csaba (Csaba Gyöngye), Muskateller, Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt. Marketing is permitted from 1 August to 31 December. According to local custom, toasts may not be made with the usual "Prost" for wine, but only with "Mahlzeit" or similar (see also Martini). The German equivalent is called Federweißer or Federroter (Bitzler, Brauser, Sauser). See also many other similar terms under Most.
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Thomas Götz
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