1940 Crown Estates of Hungary Tokaji Aszùeszencia 50cl

1940 Crown Estates of Hungary Tokaji Aszùeszencia 6 putts: rich flavours and a beautiful balance. 50cl Jennie bottle.

Sweet Aszú wines are made using wine making techniques dating back to the 1630s. A base wine is made in September from sound grapes. From mid October raisin-like, sugar rich Aszú grapes are hand picked into 'puttony' tubs and are lightly crushed. 3, 4, 5 or 6 'puttony' (25 kg) of Aszú grapes are then added per 136 litres of base wine which then undergoes a maceration and second fermentation. The wine is then aged in small oak barrels for a minimum of 4 years and a further 9 months in bottle before release.

Crown Estate's Museum Cellar is regarded as one of Hungary's national treasures holding examples of wine back to the 1630s. The "museum" wines are high puttony wines from exceptionally good vintages selected for storage in bottle where they will continue to evolve over many years.

Although 1940 was not a good year for the entire region, with below average temperature and sun, this fine wine was probably produced from Szarvas grapes which has superior quality Aszú berries in most years. Deep amber, reddish tinge. Hazelnut notes, rounded, full, rich syrup and nectar on the palate. Balance in bouquet and flavour corresponding to its age.