If you like dessert wines you really, really ought to try a Tokaji (pronounced “tok-eye”), such a prized export of Hungary it’s mentioned in their national anthem. When I saw a bottle in Whole Foods recently I spent a few moments contemplating the price tag, remembered how much the experience of tasting it was like a smiley exhale after an orgasm, and put the bottle in my basket. Sadly I can’t seem to find the one I bought on wine-searcher.com but others are also good. Describing it in mere tasting notes won’t do it much justice but here’s a go at it that might inspire you to try some:
1993 Hilltop Neszmély 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú, Hungary
* “Puttonyos” is a measurement of how sweet the Tokaji is, usually 3 to 6.
Appearance: Caramel/ maple color with amber ring fading to gold on the rim; clear.
Nose: Raisins, apricot, honey, orange marmelade, pecan pie, pineapple, molasses, limestone, sweet florals like white rose and orange blossom.
Palate: Apple cider, orange marmelade, ripe pineapple, raisins, pecan pie, molasses, apricot nectar, pear nectar, dates.
Structure: Sweet, high acid, medium + to high alcohol, full-bodied, high intensity, no tannins, endless finish, high complexity, well balanced.
EXCELLENT example of the wine. Great with many desserts or just by itself.
