Tokaj
Tokaj: Quality over Quantity
Tokaj is a wine region located in Hungary that has been producing wine for hundreds of years. In the first installment of our series, we learned about what made Tokaj such an exceptional wine region in the past, why it almost disappeared, and how it is making a comeback. In this article, we will discuss the quality of Tokaji wines over their quantity.
Driving into Tokaj from Budapest, the vast fields of mustard that transition into the 411 formally designated Tokaji vineyards are immediately noticeable, which provides an introduction to the appellation. These vineyards have been designated since the 1700s, with winemaking traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Tokaji winemakers focus on quality over quantity, and they do this by adhering to strict regulations to ensure that they produce only the best wine.
One of the essential concepts to understand in Tokaji winemaking is the Aszú method, which has been used for centuries to produce Tokaji Aszú, a unique dessert wine. This method involves using Aszú berries, which are hand-picked over several harvests and added to a barrel of wine. The wine is then left to macerate with the Aszú berries, which impart their flavor and sweetness to the wine. The wine is then aged in oak barrels for several years, producing a rich, complex wine that is unlike any other.
When it comes to Tokaji wine, you will find several important vocabulary words on the bottle. The first is Puttonyos, which refers to the number of Aszú berries that have been added to the wine. The higher the number, the sweeter and richer the wine will be. The second is Szamorodni, which is a blend of different grape varieties, both Aszú and non-Aszú. The final word is Furmint, which is the most important grape variety in Tokaj and is used in most Tokaji wines.
The Tokaj wine region also has a modern interactive museum, which was opened in 2015. The museum provides a detailed introduction to Tokaji's winemaking traditions, which are featured in themes such as essential wine and vine elements that underline the production process, while other exhibitions focus on the traditions and life of the people living in the region.
In conclusion, the Tokaj wine region in Hungary is an exceptional winemaking region that focuses on quality over quantity. Its winemakers adhere to strict regulations and use unique winemaking methods to produce truly exceptional wines. From the Aszú method to the different vocabulary words on a bottle of Tokaji wine, understanding the essential concepts of Tokaji wine can greatly increase one's appreciation of this unique wine region.