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- Origin
- Hungary
Deep amber in colour with rich aromas of sun-dried fruit, particularly apricot. On the palate this is supported by coffee and honey with a long expres... Read More- Origin
- Hungary
Deep amber in colour with rich aromas of sun-dried fruit, particularly apricot. On the palate this is supported by coffee and honey with a long expres... Read More
Geography and Climate
The Tokaj-Hegyalja wine region is situated in the foothills of the Zemplén Mountains near the border of Slovakia and Hungary. The region benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by the Tisza and Bodrog rivers, which create a humid environment. This, combined with the volcanic soil and favourable conditions, is ideal for the development of noble rot (botrytis cinerea), a crucial element in the production of sweet Tokaji wines.
Grapes
The primary grape varieties used in Tokaj-Hegyalja are Furmint, Hárslevelű, Sárgamuskotály (Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains), Kövérszőlő, and Zéta. Furmint is the most widely planted and is the backbone of many Tokaji wines, especially the sweet versions.
Noble Rot
Tokaj-Hegyalja is known for the development of noble rot on the grapes. This natural fungus shrivels the grapes, concentrating their sugars and flavours, and imparts unique honeyed and complex notes to the wines. It is a defining characteristic of the region's sweet wines.
Historical Significance
Tokaj-Hegyalja has a rich history, with Tokaji wines being favoured by European royalty and aristocracy for centuries. The region's wines were even mentioned in the works of famous writers and composers, including Voltaire and Johann Sebastian Bach.
Diverse Styles
While Tokaj is famous for its sweet wines, it also produces dry and semi-dry white wines. Dry Furmint, in particular, has gained recognition as a high-quality and complex dry white wine.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 2002, Tokaj-Hegyalja was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the region's cultural and historical importance in the world of winemaking.