Markus Hirschler & Stefan Grabler

Written by Petra Gratzer-Weninger on the 24th of October 2019

Together, Markus and Stefan run the Grapes Weinbar in the Munich Hotel Cortiina. Both are native Austrians, and I first met Stefan in the Cordobar in Berlin and Markus later directly in Grapes. Due to their very uncomplicated, open, Austrian nature, they have developed into the perfect hosts in Munich within a very short time. With them, you feel at home, and this together with best service. Their recommendations are straight to the point, the interaction with guests and wines very attentive and the overall ambience is absolutely cozy. This is exactly the type of wine bar that was missing in Munich. The one that also brings not wine-savvy people into wine in an open and uncomplicated way.
I am very happy that they agreed to write about this Flaschenpost wine selection. You should plan an evening in the Grapes wine bar every time you visit Munich!

Tasting Notes by Markus Hirschler and Stefan Grabler

What an "entry" into the Blaufränkisch League!! Franz´s 2018 Blaufränkisch hops lightfully into your nose. Delicate fruit of forest berries with a light floral note of violets. It really whistles on the palate. Extremely fresh, the ligth-fruity, elegant body also confirms the nose again. You hardly get more quality in this price range! CHAPEAU Franz & Cheers!

Here we immediately notice, why we love Blaufränkisch - Kékfrankos in Hungary - and Franz's wines so much !!! The outstanding terroir of the Steiner site should of course not be forgotten. The 2017 Steiner is dark, spicy and slightly animal-like in the nose! As soon as it hits your tongue, you can taste the freedom and elegance that the wine brings with it - grip, acidity and the fine purple fruit show us that the wine is already incredibly fun, but is definitely a long-distance runner!
So be quick and get yours before we drink it all ;-)

This is certainly a different style than today's Franz - but by no means should be viewed negatively! The nose shows you immediately that you have something more mature in the glass. Ripe and dark fruit meets forest soil and dried herbs! When we had the first sip, we came across a wine that, in a beautifully matured, crumbly form, shows that it has been made for years to come. We have had the wine on our wine list since day 1 and are very happy that we were able to try the Raga again.
So for everyone who is not yet familiar with the Weninger winery´s earlier style - TRY IT!

The Message in a Bottle is our wine subscription. Our aim here is to present to you an assortment of wines to enjoy, including interesting tasting notes from our guest authors. Our Winter 2020 Message in a Bottle is presented by Markus Hirschler and Stefan Grabler. They are running the Grapes Weinbar in Munich.

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