2008 Szent Benedek Tokaji Furmint SZENT TAMÁS-DULO (dry white from Mád, Tokaj/Hungary)
13% alcohol content, unusually low with high-class dry Furmint. The vines are about 40 years old. Grown on clay soil/Nyirok. Traditionally aged in large wooden barrels (Hungarian oak).
Subtle white flowers, green tea, wet rock and a shy hint of vanilla on the nose.
On the palate it is presenting drive and grip with creamyness, viscosity, generous fruit (reminiscent of pear, yellow fruits and gooseberry), sweet green-tea-like tannins, fruity and refreshing acidity and very deep minerality which all are supporting a very long fresh aftertaste.
Despite all its intensity there's no feel of any heavyness. The best alcohol integration I've ever seen with dry Furmint and not the slightest hint of bitterness (which can be a problem with dry Furmint).
It is utterly impressive how this young wine opens, grows, integrates and harmonizes with extended airing over days.
What an achievement! Certainly not a coincidence, this is the product of both a superior terroir (SZENT TAMÁS) and a true master of dry Furmint vinification - József Ádám from Szent Benedek. Congratulations to you, József!
You should definitely watch out for this wine if you love the great dry whites from Alsace, Wachau, Germany and Burgundy.
My personal rating: 95/100.
Best regards, Rainer
