The term "Aszú" means noble rot (= botrytis). The first Tokaji Aszú wine was created by chance in 1650 because, under threat of a Turkish invasion, the harvest had to be postponed. It wasn't until November that the vineyards could safely be accessed again, and as a result, all the grapes had dried and shriveled. The result was a honey-like, syrupy liquid called Eszencia. This was then blended with some wine from a previous harvest, and Tokaji Aszú was born.
International appreciation for Tokaji wines
Royal Tokaji Winery was founded in 1990 by wine writer Hugh Johnson in Hungary and has become one of Tokaji's most influential wineries. Most of its vineyards are located in the municipality of Mád. From the outset, Royal Tokaji decided to focus on producing single-vineyard wines made from the first vineyards of Mézes Mály, Nyulászó, Szt. Tamás, and Betsek. From the outset, the goal was to revitalize the wines of one of the most renowned wine regions in history and bring them back to international recognition. Of its 107 hectares of vineyards, 54 hectares are located in four First Growths (Mézes Mály, Sz. Tamás, Nyulászó, and Betsek) and has been considered one of the largest in the region since the early 18th century. The 13th-century cellars provide the perfect environment for aging the wines. Traditional techniques are combined with modern technology to create the finest Royal Tokaji wines.
The excellent quality Aszú berries, with a beautiful structure and perfect botrytis, are soaked in fermenting must and macerated together for two days. After pressing and fermenting the wine to perfection, it is transferred to the underground cellar for two years of barrel aging in 300- and 500-liter, second- and third-tier oak barrels.
The smell and taste of Royal Tokaji 5 puttonyos Aszu
The result is a golden-yellow wine with a delicious nose of honey and peaches. The 5 Puttonyos Aszu is delicate and has a complex flavor with notes of dried southern fruits, caramel, and almonds. Very elegant and refreshing with a crisp, long finish, perfectly balanced.