Published: July 21 2023
Hungary, although renowned for its thermal spas and rich historical heritage, is also a gem unveiled in the world of wines. The star of Hungary's viticulture, Tokaji Furmint, unequivocally stands at the pinnacle as Hungary's best white wine. Known for its exquisite sweetness and vibrant acidity, this wine is a marvel to the senses.
A Peek at The Tokaji Wine Region
Tracing back to the 17th Century, the Tokaji wine region, seated in the northeastern reaches of Hungary, has been churning out its iconic white wines. This region, bestowed with the appellation 'Tokaji', creates the perfect environment for the propagation of the Furmint grape, which is the varietal used in Tokaji wines
The Tokaj Aszú - The Sweet Wonder
The most recognisable and widely celebrated white wine from Hungary is the Tokaj Aszú. Made from the Furmint grape, which is naturally high in acidity, lends the wine an invigorating bite. The grapes, left on the vine until they shrivel into a near-raisin state, concentrate their sugars, resulting in an incredibly sweet wine. This process, known as 'noble rot', gifts Tokaj Aszú its distinctive sweet-tart flavour profile. It is rich, luscious and balanced by a lingering, biting acidity. The wine is commonly enjoyed as a dessert wine and is stored in beautifully crafted, slender bottles that add to its opulent experience.
Dry Furmint - The Unsung Hero
While the Aszú soars in popularity, the Dry Furmint is an unsung hero of Hungarian white wines. The wine is expertly crafted from the same Furmint grape, but the winemaking process is altered to restrict the development of the noble rot, thereby producing a dry wine.
The dry Furmint is a remarkably unique white wine with the charm of the Furmint grape shining through each sip. It is known for its crisp, fresh acidity and its vibrant, fruit-forward palette. Citrus, green apple, and pear are common tasting notes, often layered with intricate minerality and a touch of oak.
Pairing Ideas for Furmint Wines
Regardless of whether you're reaching for a bottle of Aszú or dry Furmint, these wines make for fantastic food pairing candidates. A bowl of hearty goulash or some paprika-spiced chicken goes splendidly with the dry Furmint. The Aszú, on the other hand, is best accompanied by blue cheese or decadent desserts like chocolate mousse or créme brûlée.
Conclusion - A Toast to the World’s Best White Wine
In conclusion, the best white wine in Hungary, the Tokaji Furmint, boasts a richly diverse flavour profile that appeals to a broad spectrum of wine enthusiasts. Intriguingly sweet or delightfully dry, there’s a Furmint for every palate, marking its widespread popularity among Hungarian wines. Reaching for a bottle of Tokaji Furmint ensures a sensational Hungarian wine experience.
