The Royal Tokaji Wine Company, a pioneering force in the revitalisation of Hungary's historic Tokaj region, presents its 2019 Late Harvest. This expression offers an accessible entry point into the world of noble rot wines, showcasing the unique terroir and winemaking traditions of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sourced from vineyards benefiting from the confluence of the Bodrog and Tisza rivers, which create the ideal autumnal mists for the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot, on the indigenous grape varieties—primarily Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Sárgamuskotály. The Late Harvest style involves allowing grapes to remain on the vine longer, concentrating sugars and flavours, though typically to a lesser degree than the intensely botrytised berries used for Tokaji Aszú. This results in a wine of vibrant freshness and balanced sweetness, reflecting the vintage's character and the region's distinctive minerality.
Tasting notes
The 2019 Royal Tokaji Late Harvest presents a luminous golden hue. On the nose, it offers an inviting bouquet of ripe apricot, candied orange peel, and acacia honey, underpinned by delicate floral nuances and a subtle minerality characteristic of Tokaj's volcanic soils. The palate is elegantly sweet, yet remarkably fresh, with a vibrant acidity that beautifully balances the concentrated fruit flavours of peach, marmalade, and a touch of ginger spice. The finish is persistent and clean, leaving a refreshing impression.