Szóló Levegő 2021: A Breath of Fresh Air from Tokaj From the volcanic hills of Tokaj, Szóló Levegő 2021 is a breathtaking expression of pure Furmint. The name, translating to ‘Air’, perfectly captures the essence of this dry wine. It is a bottle of ethereal character and profound purity, born from the volcanic soils of Tállya village and the uncompromising vision of its crafter, Tímea Éless. The story of Szóló is one of homecoming. Tímea Éless returned to the village of her childhood to reclaim her family’s ancestral vineyards, bringing with her a powerful “no compromise” doctrine. This commitment is absolute, extending from certified organic and biodynamic practices in the vineyard to the cellar, where intervention is shunned. The winemaking process is a masterclass in guided naturalism. The wine’s unique character is shaped by a blend of juice fermented and aged in two different vessels. Fifty percent is handled in stainless steel tanks, which is crucial for preserving the pure, vibrant fruit aromas and the grape’s natural, crisp acidity. This technique ensures the bright notes of citrus and fresh fruit remain at the forefront, clean and untouched. In contrast, the other fifty percent is aged in stoneware eggs, which contributes texture and depth. The porous nature of the stoneware allows for gentle micro-oxygenation, helping to soften the wine and build a richer, smoother mouthfeel without imparting any external flavours. This process enhances the wine’s mineral expression, adding complexity to the aroma and a graceful weight to the palate. By blending these two components, the winemaker achieves a wine with both aromatic intensity and a sophisticated, layered texture. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and with zero added sulphur, Levegő is Furmint presented in its most honest and unadulterated form. The nose is an uplifting bouquet of elderflower, fresh white peach, and bright citrus peel, with intriguing undertones of mango and honey emerging as it opens in the glass. The palate is where the wine truly soars. A focused, linear acidity—a “fiery” signature of Tokaj’s volcanic terroir—provides an energetic backbone, creating a mouthwatering tension against the wine’s graceful, almost weightless body. The finish is long, clean, and resonant, leaving a distinct saline and stony minerality that speaks directly of its volcanic origins. A living, breathing wine that evolves with every sip, it pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, poultry, and complex vegetarian dishes. WINE PROFILE Szóló - Levego 2022
