Hetszolo Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos 2010 500ml

The 2010 Tokaji Aszu 5-Puttonyos had been bottled just a fortnight before I tasted it. Considering the growing season, this has an impressive bouquet with what seems like plenty of Aszu character. The palate is well-balanced with a zesty opening, plenty of Clementine, peach and apricot notes. The acidity is very racy (12.5 grams per liter), that neatly balanced the 152 grams per liter residual sugar. Vibrant and very focused, this could be one of the best Aszu wines in what was a difficult vintage. It will be not be commercialized for several years, but watch out for this when eventually released.

• Country: Hungary
• Region: Tokaj
• Size: 500ml
• Color: White
• Alcohol by Vol: 11.5%

Varietal

Furmint

Furmint is Hungary’s most renowned white grape variety, primarily associated with Tokaji Aszú, one of the world’s most famous sweet wines. Indigenous to Hungary, Furmint thrives in the volcanic soils of the Tokaj region, where its naturally high acidity and susceptibility to botrytis (noble rot) make it ideal for producing both sweet and dry wines.

What makes Furmint unique is its versatility, structure, and aging potential. Dry Furmint wines are crisp and mineral-driven, featuring flavors of green apple, pear, quince, citrus, and white flowers, often with a touch of smokiness from oak aging. With time, they develop honeyed, nutty, and waxy characteristics. Tokaji Aszú, made from botrytized grapes, showcases intense notes of apricot, orange peel, caramel, and spice, balanced by vibrant acidity.

Furmint pairs well with a wide range of foods, including seafood, poultry, spicy dishes, and blue cheese, making it a fascinating choice for both dry wine lovers and sweet wine enthusiasts.