The Hirschbirne, an old Styrian variety. It has become rare, and only reaches the peak of its aroma when overripe.
Harvesting takes place in September, when the "Hirscht" (autumn) arrives. Late, very ripe, with plenty of tannin. Hardly anyone likes to eat this pear raw; it has always been a pear for cider and processing. Finding the soft core beneath the rough skin is the real work with this variety. Pressed and fermented, it becomes a vinegar to which the tannins provide stability.
One year in a stainless steel tank, no wood. The fruit provides its own structure. No concentrate, no additives, no sulfites. What remains is full-bodied and tart, with 5% acidity and a pear note that has nothing sweet about it. From nature, culture.
Stubborn. Just like the pear itself.
