Wines Unspecified Pannon Tokaj Winery - Késői Szüretelésű Furmint - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Cuvée Késői Szüretelésű Furmint from Pannon Tokaj Winery is a moelleux (sweet) white wine crafted from the Furmint grape, the signature varietal of the Tokaj wine region. Harvested late in the season – as indicated by “Késői Szüretelésű” which means “late harvest” – the grapes benefit from extended hang time on the vine, developing noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) and high concentration of sugars and complex aromas. The resulting wine presents a radiant straw gold hue, with intense aromas of honey, dried apricot, ripe peach, and delicate floral notes, underlined by the hallmark refreshing acidity of Furmint. On the palate, expect a refined sweetness balanced with vivacious freshness, offering flavours of marmalade, candied citrus peel, and a lingering, mineral-inflected finish.

Tokaj, located in north-eastern Hungary, enjoys a storied reputation as one of the world’s most celebrated sweet wine regions. The area is characterised by volcanic soils, which impart a striking minerality to the wines, while the confluence of rivers and proximity to the Carpathian hills foster the misty autumns ideal for the development of botrytis. With over four centuries of history, Tokaj’s legacy is closely tied to royal courts and literary figures, establishing standards for sweet winemaking long before many other European regions. The unique terroir, marked by its microclimate and diverse soils, gives Tokaji wines their inimitable complexity and elegance.

For food pairings, this sweet Furmint is exquisite alongside classic foie gras, blue cheeses such as Roquefort, or pâté en croûte. It also enhances desserts based on stone fruit, like apricot tart, or can brilliantly accompany dishes with a touch of spice, such as duck à l’orange or lightly spiced North African tagines. For a more local experience, enjoy it with Hungarian walnut cake (diós torta) or a simple platter of dried fruits and nuts.

Serve well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C, to preserve its vibrant acidity and accentuate the expressive aromatics. Consider using a white wine glass with a slightly flared rim to release the aromatic layers, and don’t hesitate to revisit the wine as it warms in the glass, revealing even more depth and nuance with each sip.