Wines Unspecified Royal Tokaji - 5 Puttonyos Aszú - 2009

The 2009 Royal Tokaji 5 Puttonyos Aszú is a stellar example of Hungary’s legendary dessert wines. Crafted predominantly from Furmint, complemented by grape varieties such as Hárslevelű and Muscat de Lunel, this cuvée encapsulates the essence of the Aszú tradition. The term "5 Puttonyos" denotes the number of hods (baskets) of botrytised grapes added to a traditional Gönc cask, signalling pronounced sweetness, rich flavour, and a lusciously textured palate. The 2009 vintage provided optimal ripening conditions, allowing the noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) to concentrate sugars and flavours, resulting in a wine with intense notes of apricot, honey, candied orange peel, and delicate spice. The meticulous vinification involves macerating hand-picked, shrivelled Aszú grapes with a base wine, followed by barrel ageing in local Hungarian oak, giving nuanced complexity and remarkable ageing potential.

Tokaj, located in northeastern Hungary, is among the world's oldest classified wine regions and famed for its unique “terroir.” The area benefits from a cool continental climate, promoting slow ripening and the formation of noble rot essential for Aszú production. Volcanic subsoils, overlaid with clay and loess, imbue the wines with marked minerality and freshness, balancing the inherent sweetness. Tokaj’s historic vineyards have been celebrated since the 17th century, revered by nobility and poets alike, earning the region its UNESCO World Heritage status and the moniker "Wine of Kings, King of Wines."

Royal Tokaji 5 Puttonyos Aszú shines with blue cheese such as Roquefort or Stilton, foie gras, or even gently spiced Asian dishes that echo its sweetness without overpowering its delicacy. Traditional Hungarian desserts like Dobos torte or apricot strudel are sublime with this wine, as are caramelised fruit tarts or a simple dish of fresh peaches.

For full appreciation, serve this Tokaji slightly chilled at 10-12°C. Use a small white wine glass to concentrate its aromas, allowing each complex layer of honeyed fruit and vibrant acidity to unfurl. This wine is well-suited to extended ageing but already offers an engaging and memorable tasting experience.