2018 Royal Tokaji Aszú 6 Puttonyos Birsalmas
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Birsalmás is their smallest vineyard, a mere second growth apparently. The name translates as quince orchard. Royal Tokaji manages around two hectares of parcels in this garden-like vineyard which totals 14 hectares. It is situated on the southern and western slopes of a hill overlooking the village of Mád. Birsalmás vineyard has volcanic topsoil interspersed with pockets of loess-clay. The vines were replanted in 1987 and 2016 giving them an average age of around 25 years. The last vintage of Birsalmás to be offered was 2008. Since then they have swapped some parcels and replanted others. Made from the early-ripening Kövérszőlő grapes macerated in Furmint base wine. RS 187.3 g/l, TA 6.4 g/l. 1,529 bottles made. Broad, savoury nose and almost delicate on the palate! Apricot jam and plenty of life and acidity. An intriguing wine with very clever acid/sugar balance. (JR)
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Tokaji Birsalmás 6-Puttonyos takes time to unfold on the nose. It's cut from a similar cloth to the Nyulászó, but without such a strong peppermint aroma, this is better defined with yellow plum, fig and candle wax scents. The palate is well-balanced with an impressive line of acidity that keeps it on its toes. Stem ginger hints surface towards the finish, less unctuous than some of their other single vineyard cuvées, which means it is more refreshing. Excellent. (187.3g/l residual sugar and 6.40g/l acidity)
This has a rich, smoky nose of quince jelly, ripe orchard fruit and apricot jam. A little chocolaty, too. Very delicate and spicy, with delicious fruit on the palate and balanced acidity. Moderately sweet, rich but not cloying, with a medium to full body and a delicious ending. Drink or hold.