Fritz Zweigelt, the breeder and namesake of the variety, created it in 1922 by crossing Kékfrankos and Sankt Laurent in Klosterneuburg, Austria. It was initially called Rotburger but was later renamed in honour of its breeder. It was registered in the Hungarian national variety catalogue in the early 1980s; however, the variety was certainly known before this, especially in the western part of the country.
Outside Austria, the variety can be found in neighbouring countries, such as the Czech Republic and Slovakia, as well as 1,600 hectares in Hungary. It is most widespread in the Kunság and Eger wine districts, while almost every tenth vine in the Sopron wine district is Zweigelt.
It generally produces light red wines and rosés in the Kunság wine district, while in Sopron, there is a clear historical connection with the variety around Lake Neusiedl. This region highlights its qualities, producing easy-drinking wines that are vibrant ruby when young with notes of spice and red berry fruit and soft tannins. With age, however, it can develop depth and sweet spicy notes. It is also works well in blends and is a popular blending partner with Kékfrankos or other more tannic varieties.
The first thing that comes to mind about the variety is red berries in the form of cherry, sour cherry and plum, followed by a certain spiciness, even paprika. Wines are usually characterised by fresh acidity, medium tannins, body and alcohol. When young, it has an intense purple colour. Premium wines are also aged in barrique.