Disznókö Tokaji Late Harvest 2021

Disznókő is a leading estate in the Tokaj-Hegyalja region of Hungary, and this Late Harvest is a single-variety Furmint, a gentler introduction to Tokaj's sweet wines than its Aszú bottlings. It is made from Furmint that is harvested late, with a portion of the bunches affected by Botrytis cinerea. The combination of extended hang time and noble rot concentrates the sugar and flavour while Tokaj's volcanic soils and the diurnal swing of warm days and cool nights preserve Furmint's high natural acidity. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature, which keeps the fruit fresh and clean, and the wine is then aged for around 12 months in oak, mostly older barrels, which softens it and adds light spice without dominating. The colour is bright gold. The nose shows candied lemon and citrus peel, dried pineapple and apricot, with white flowers, a touch of dried herbs and honey. The palate is sweet but lively, the acidity cutting through the sugar to leave a clean, fresh finish rather than a heavy one. Serve well chilled at around 8 to 10 degrees in a small glass with fruit desserts.