Pajzos Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos 2018 50cl

Domaine Pajzos is a historic estate in Hungary’s Tokaj region, with origins dating back to the 18th century and a strong reputation for producing traditional sweet wines. The vineyards are located around Tokaj and Mád, planted on steep volcanic slopes composed of rhyolite, tuff, zeolite and clay. These soils provide excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to support vine health, contributing to the wines’ distinctive minerality and complexity. The region’s unique microclimate, shaped by morning mists from the Bodrog and Tisza rivers and warm autumn afternoons, is ideal for the development of noble rot. Vineyard work is largely manual, with careful selection of fruit and a sustainable, low intervention approach, though not formally certified organic.

Pajzos Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 2018 is made primarily from Furmint, complemented by smaller proportions of Hárslevelu and other indigenous varieties. The wine is produced by harvesting individually selected botrytised berries, which are macerated into a base wine before slow fermentation. It is then aged in Hungarian oak barrels for approximately 18 to 24 months, followed by further bottle ageing. The 2018 vintage shows intense aromas of dried apricot, orange peel and acacia honey, with hints of spice and marmalade. The palate is rich and layered, balanced by vibrant acidity, leading to a long, refined finish. It pairs well with blue cheese, foie gras, nut-based desserts or can be enjoyed as a dessert wine on its own.