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Laufer Tokaji Late Harvest Dessert Wine
$44.99 - $539.88
OU/CRC Kosher, Not Mevushal
Tokaji (also spelled as Tokay) is a legendary sweet wine from the Tokaj wine region in Hungary. It is one of the most famous and historic dessert wines in the world, known for its exceptional quality and unique production method. Tokaji wines are made from botrytized grapes, a special kind of noble rot, which concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes.
Grape Varieties: The main grape varieties used in Tokaji wines are Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains. These grapes are particularly well-suited to the region's climate and terroir.Aszú: The hallmark of Tokaji wines is the production of Aszú grapes. Aszú berries are individually picked and affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which causes the grapes to become partially raisined. This concentration of sugars and flavors leads to the production of intensely sweet and complex wines.
Puttonyos: Tokaji wines are often classified by the number of "puttonyos" of Aszú grapes added to the must during fermentation. The term "puttonyos" refers to the traditional baskets used to collect the Aszú grapes. The higher the number of puttonyos, the sweeter and more concentrated the wine will be.
Trockenbeerenauslese: Tokaji wines can reach the level of Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA), which is a German term for the highest quality of botrytized dessert wines. These wines are extremely rare and are made from individually selected dried grapes with the highest sugar content.
Acidity and Ageability: Despite their sweetness, Tokaji wines are known for their vibrant acidity, which balances the sweetness and contributes to their longevity. Properly stored Tokaji wines can age for decades, developing complex flavors and aromas over time.
Historical Significance: Tokaji has a rich history dating back to the 17th century and was often referred to as the "wine of kings, king of wines." It gained international fame and popularity, and even received mentions in literature and music, including references in the works of poets like Louis XV and Voltaire.
Terroir: The Tokaj wine region's volcanic soils, favorable climate, and the presence of the Tisza and Bodrog rivers contribute to the unique conditions that allow for the development of noble rot and the creation of exceptional Tokaji wines.
Modern Innovations: While traditional methods are still widely used, some producers are exploring modern winemaking techniques to produce dry and off-dry Tokaji wines, showcasing the versatility of the region's grapes.