Review: Hetszolo Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos (2001)

Posted by Arctic Wolf on October 28, 2012

Tokaj-Hétszolo white dessert wines are made from 100% Furmint grapes at the Tokaj-Hétszolo Estate, which lies on the south side of Mount Tokaj in the north of Hungary, 200 km east of Budapest. This part of the world is known for its exceptional growing climate; and in fact, has been protected since 1772 by the first appellation of origin awarded in the entire world, (a full 83 years before Bordeaux wines were officially classed). The Tokaj-Hétszolo dessert wines are unique not just for where they are created; but also because of the unique manner in which the grapes are harvested. The grapes selected to produce the wine are not picked when they have ripened; rather they are left to “rot” or “Botrytise” on the vine and picked by hand as late as possible in the growing season.

I should point out that the appearance of the “noble rot” depends not only upon the location (or terroir) of the vineyards, but upon the irascible weather. It is not uncommon for no Aszú grapes to appear for several years at a time. This makes the Hetszolo Tokaji Aszu a special wine which can only be produced when conditions are right.

The particular Aszu wine I am reviewing today is the Hetszolo Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos (2001). I was provided with this bottle by Thirsty Cellar Imports who is the local importer here in Alberta.

Here is an excerpt from my review:

“… The wine displays a pleasing golden amber in the glass, and the initial nose brings forward immediate notes of green apple jelly and fresh green grapes. Swirling the wine gently in the glass brings much more into those breezes above the glass. The scents of freshly opened cans of apricots and pears; a sweet aroma of honey and caramel; light sensations of freshly sliced lemons and pineapple; and a vague but persistent impression of cashew peanuts all dance playfully above the glass…. “

Here is a link to the full review (which contains a little more information about botrytised wines):