Royal Tokaji and Hungary’s Tokaj region are known throughout the wine-world  for world-class sweet Aszú wines. In his recent Vinepair article, Tim McKirdy is taking a look at the lesser-known dry Tokaji that is currently surging in popularity.  A few of our favorite quotes are below, but this article is a very in depth look at the subject and we highly suggest you head over to vinepair.com for a deeper look.

“…dry Tokaji, too, has firm roots in local tradition. Dating back to the 1700s, vinum ordinárium, or ordinary wine (a reference to its production technique, rather than quality), was a favorite of Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed its “silky” character.”

“September rainfall is key to Aszú production as it helps spread botrytis. But with the increasing influence of global warming, crucial rainfall doesn’t always arrive. Currently, Aszú can be made in just five or six out of every 10 vintages.

“Thin-skinned and late-ripening, Furmint is an ideal host for botrytis. Yet its racy acidity and high tannins mean it’s capable of producing complex dry wines.”