2011 Chateau Hellha Tokaji Furmint

In the foothills of Carpathian Mountains in northeast Hungary, the Tokaji region has long been prized as the source of distinctive dessert-style wines made from the native Furmint grape varietal; King Louis XIV is famously quoted as declaring Tokaji to be the "Wine of kings and king of wines". Yet while the sweet wines of Tokaji claim the fame, the "everyday" dry whites of the region like this dry Furmint from Chateau Hellha are incredible values and can provide an exciting, food-friendly alternative to Chardonnay. Exotic aromas of tropical fruit, peach, and honey lead in the nose, followed by a palate that is rich and round, layered with notes of apple, nutty spice, and mineral. A lush, viscose mouthfeel is delineated by fresh acidity, and the finish is dry and crisp but with persistent flavor. This is delicous accompanied by assorted cheeses and nuts, but also the weight to stand up to richer, dishes.