Szóló – Ötödik (Fifth) 2021 Hungary, Tokaj From the volcanic heart of Hungary’s legendary Tokaj region comes a wine that not only challenges expectations but redefines them. The Szóló Ötödik (Fifth) 2021 is a masterful natural white, blending Furmint and Hárslevelű into a profound expression of its volcanic home. While Tokaj built its fame on sweet liquid gold, this wine mines a different treasure: the dry, complex, and savory soul of the volcanic terroir. In the glass, it glows with a golden amber hue, hinting at the long barrel aging it has undergone. The aroma is where the story truly begins: a captivating mix of bruised apple, toasted hazelnut, and chamomile tea, layered over intriguing savoury notes of sea salt, wild herbs, and a twist of citrus peel. Take a sip, and you’re greeted with incredible depth and a saline, mineral texture that is pure Tokaj volcanic soil. The palate reveals notes of green walnut and dried apricot with a hint of butterscotch, all gracefully evolving into a long, nutty finish underscored by a flinty, smoky edge. The secret to its remarkable balance is a combination of pure volcanic terroir and traditional cellar techniques, a place where the raw energy of the land meets the winemaker’s vision. The grapes are sourced from the 40-year-old Bártfai vineyard, where the volcanic Rhyolite soil is responsible for the wine’s stony minerality and vibrant acidity. The wine then ages for two years in Hungarian oak barrels, guided by two powerful natural forces. It rests under a protective veil of flor yeast, which shields it from excessive oxidation while contributing signature saline and nutty notes. Meanwhile, resting on its lees (spent yeast) is what builds the wine’s generous, full-bodied mouthfeel. It’s this final layer of complexity that brings the entire wine into perfect balance. The Szóló Ötödik 2021 is more than a wine; it’s a statement. It’s a compelling narrative of innovation and tradition, proving Tokaj is a powerhouse for world-class dry wines. WINE PROFILE Szóló - Ötödik 2021
