Zeronimo Century Blend: World’s First 20-Year-Aged Dealcoholized Wine Debuts For U.S. Consumers

Dec 3, 2024: A groundbreaking innovation in winemaking has arrived. Combining tradition, craftsmanship, and modern innovation, Zeronimo Century Blend, the world’s first 20-year-aged and dealcoholized wine, celebrates its U.S. debut today. This red wine cuvée crafted from Blaufränkisch, Pinot Noir, and Merlot marks a milestone for premium non-alcoholic wines and is available in an exclusive limited edition of just 2,500 bottles.

“Creating an alcohol-free version of our top-tier, 98-point wine was already revolutionary,” said Patrick Bayer. “But dealcoholizing a wine aged for two decades takes this vision to an entirely new level. With Century Blend, we’re showcasing how tradition and innovation can come together to create something extraordinary.”

The visionary winemakers behind Zeronimo, Katja and Patrick Bayer of the Heribert Bayer winery in Austria’s Burgenland region, are known for redefining what’s possible in the wine industry. Following their bold U.S. market entry this summer, featuring a dealcoholized bottle of 98 point rated wine, the duo continues to make waves and push boundaries with a product that blends the artistry of traditional winemaking with innovative dealcoholization techniques.

The Story Behind Century Blend

The concept of creating a dealcoholized, aged wine stems from the Bayers’ unique philosophy: exceptional wine requires time. For over 20 years, their family winery has reserved a portion of its top-tier red wines for extended aging, allowing them to mature into complex, harmonious expressions of flavor. Known internationally for their expertise in aged wines, the Bayers hold an unparalleled collection of vintages - a legacy that forms the foundation of Zeronimo Century Blend.

“Ripe wines offer indescribably beautiful aromas, enchanting sweetness, and magical complexity,” explained Patrick Bayer. “Blaufränkisch, in particular, is a variety that requires time to reach its peak, much like Cabernet Sauvignon. The result is unparalleled.”

The couple’s passion for crafting wines at their peak inspired them to make this experience accessible to all, regardless of alcohol preferences. “Aged wines undergo a transformation of tannins and aromas over time, resulting in a drink that is truly one of a kind,” said Katja Bayer. “To now offer that same experience in a non-alcoholic format is something truly special.”

From Vision to Reality

Turning this vision into reality was no easy feat. The Bayers observed that while dealcoholization reduces primary fruit aromas in red wines, it preserves the secondary and tertiary aromas that develop during aging. This realization prompted them to experiment with the idea of creating an aged, alcohol-free wine.

“When a partner asked us if we could imagine what a non-alcoholic aged wine might taste like, we couldn’t wait to find out,” Patrick Bayer recounted. “The challenges were immense, but the results exceeded all expectations.”

The Century Blend debuted at an exclusive presentation in Vienna this September, where it left experts and wine enthusiasts speechless. Among them was Joshua James, founder of Ocean Beach Café and Zeronimo’s brand ambassador in the U.S.

“I’ve never experienced such an extraordinary and magical aroma in a glass,” said James. “It moved me deeply. This wine is ethereal, harmonious, and incredibly complex. Lovers of aged wines will be amazed by this alcohol-free masterpiece.”

Limited Availability

Following its European debut last week, Century Blend is now available for reservation in the U.S. and Canada. Due to overwhelming demand, pre-orders are highly recommended. Shipments for pre-reserves are expected in mid-to-late January.

A Monumental Experience

Century Blend offers a symphony of aromas: cassis, eucalyptus, forest floor, caramelized mushrooms, and nougat. On the palate, it reveals a rich, harmonious complexity that reflects the depth of its 20-year journey. This wine is not just a first-of-its-kind innovation; it’s a testament to the power of patience, craftsmanship, and the belief that time is the most precious ingredient of all.