1999 Tokaji Aszu 6 Puttonyos Harslevelu

As announced on the label, this is a Tokaji Aszu based on the yellow muscat. Mint sage and a distilled herbal melange dominate the nose, along with an ethereal, honeyed note of pure botrytisin. Herbal essences, honey and citrus flavors. In texture, this is thick yet firm, and creamy in feel, like lemon custard laced with Chartreuse. The finish is sweet, almost candied, yet not without delicacy and with ethereal suggestions of herbs, flowers and subtle smokiness. (Each of the numerous lots of Tokaji Aszu 6 Puttonyos I tasted from barrel at this estate had significant merit, so readers would be wise to attend to any other 6 Puttonyos releases.) 1 star.