2017 Sauska Tokaji Aszu 6 Puttonyos Hungarian Sweet Wine NV 500ML

About the Wine

Hungarian Tokajis were historically among the most highly prized wines in the world. Long before Sauternes, they graced the tables of European elites and connoisseurs. Today these wines are still highly prized, particularly when they come from the 2017 vintage that Decanter notes was an “outstanding, opulent vintage.”

Made in the Aszú method—where shriveled grapes (beautifully afflicted with the noble rot) are painstakingly harvested one by one—are crushed and then soaked with a base wine to extract the maximum flavor and sweetness. Then the Aszú matures for at least 3 years. This method is employed only in the best vintages, and the result is a long-aging dessert wine that can cellar for decades, aided by the residual sugars in the wine. Tokaji sweetness is measured on the Puttonyos scale. A Tokaji with 6 Puttonyos has around 150g/l residual sugar.

Made with traditional Hungarian grapes but more comparable to a good Spätlese Riesling from Germany in sweetness. The naturally high acidity of Furmint makes it perfect for this style of wine as it balances the sweetness and leaves the finish refreshing. This style started popping up in the 1990s, so not super traditional. 

While Tokaji Aszú is referred to as a dessert wine, its pairings are not restricted to dessert. Yes, it’s a complementary quaff for dark chocolate, caramelized apple dishes, creme brulee, and of course, cheese, but it also drinks well with foie gras, chicken with dates, and hot and sour savory Asian dishes. It makes a lovely aperitif, too. Served slightly chilled, it’s a versatile wine.

Tasting Notes: 100% Furmint

Reviews

 A rich sweet balanced by bright, mouthwatering acidity, with dried papaya, apple jam and steeped raspberry fruit flavors, which are high-toned in an expressive and pleasing way, riding a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Reveals rich hints of candied almond and salted caramel on the finish. Drink now through 2030. 50 cases imported. ~93 Wine Spectator.

***Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles of This Wine***