Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint 2021

Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint: A Dive into Hungary's Hidden Gem 

Unveiling the Elegance of Furmint

Nestled in the heart of Hungary's Tokaj region lies a grape variety waiting to be discovered: Furmint. While renowned for its sweet botrytised dessert wines, Furmint also shines in its dry iterations. The Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint is a prime example, showcasing the grape's versatility and captivating character.

A Feast for the Senses: Tasting Notes

Visually: The Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint boasts a pale straw-yellow hue with vibrant green reflections. Hold the glass up to the light and admire its clarity and brilliance.

Aroma: As you bring the glass closer, a symphony of aromas unfolds. Delicate notes of citrus fruits like grapefruit and lime intermingle with hints of ripe orchard fruits – think pears and apples. A subtle minerality emerges, reminiscent of wet stone and crushed gravel, adding a touch of complexity. There might also be a whisper of white pepper or floral nuances for some tasters.

Palate: The first sip is a delightful surprise. The wine is dry and crisp, with a lively acidity that dances on your tongue. Flavours of citrus and stone fruits from the nose translate beautifully, joined by a refreshing touch of green apple. The minerality continues to play its supporting role, adding depth and intrigue. Despite its dryness, the wine displays a remarkable balance, with a subtle richness hinting at the potential of the Furmint grape. The finish is clean and lingers pleasantly, leaving you wanting more.

Food Pairings: A Match Made in Heaven

The Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint's versatility makes it a fantastic food companion. Here are some pairings that will elevate your culinary experience:

• Seafood: The wine's crisp acidity and zesty citrus notes cut through the richness of oily fish like salmon or tuna. Consider seared scallops, grilled prawns, or even fish and chips.
• Shellfish: The minerality in the wine beautifully complements the delicate flavours of oysters, mussels, and clams.
• Salads and Lighter Fare: The refreshing character of the wine makes it a perfect partner for summer salads, particularly those with goat cheese, walnuts, and fruits like pears or apples.
• Poultry: Grilled chicken or roast turkey find a wonderful match in the Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint. The wine's acidity cuts through the fattiness of the bird, while the fruit flavours complement the savoury notes.
• Cheeses: Opt for creamy goat cheeses or hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano. The wine's acidity will balance the creaminess of the cheese, while the minerality can complement the salty notes.

Serving Suggestions: Optimise Your Experience

To fully appreciate the Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint, ensure it is served chilled, ideally between 10-12°C (50-54°F). This temperature range preserves the wine's vibrancy and enhances its crisp acidity.

Decanting is not necessary for this wine. However, if you prefer, a short decantation (around 15 minutes) can help the aromas open up slightly.

Use clear, white wine glasses to appreciate the wine's beautiful colour and allow the aromas to gather effectively.

A Final Note: A Wine for Every Occasion

The Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint is a versatile and food-friendly wine perfect for various occasions. Enjoy it as an aperitif to whet your appetite or pair it with a light lunch or dinner. With its refreshing character and elegant profile, this Hungarian gem is sure to impress your guests and become a new favourite in your wine collection.

Beyond the Bottle: Explore Hungary's Wine Country

Intrigued by the Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint? Consider exploring the rich winemaking history of the Tokaj region. This unique terroir, with its volcanic soils and unique microclimate, contributes significantly to the character of Furmint grapes. With a little research, you can discover a whole world of Hungarian wines, from dry whites to sweet dessert wines, waiting to be savoured.