Furmint

Question 1

In what country is Furmint most planted?

Answer 1

Hungary

Question 2

Why is Furmint so well suited to making sweet wines?

Answer 2

• High in acidity
• Susceptible to Botrytis/noble rot

Question 3

Which appellation in Hungary is best known for its Furmint?

Answer 3

Tokaj

Question 4

Where in Hungary is Tokaj located?

Answer 4

Northeast corner of Hungary

Question 5

What wine is the Tokaj appellation legendary for making?

Answer 5

Tokaj Aszú

Question 6

What is Tokaj Aszú?

Answer 6

A Botrytis/noble rot-affected sweet wine principally made from Furmint.

Question 7

Is Tokaj Aszú always made sweet, off-dry, dry, or sparkling?

Answer 7

Tokaj Aszú is always made sweet.

Question 8

What is the term on a Hungarian wine label that indicates sweetness level?

Answer 8

Puttonyos

Question 9

What are the two puttonyos levels used in Tokaji?

Answer 9

5 and 6 Puttonyos

6 Puttonyos is sweeter than 5 Puttonyos.

5 Puttonyos requires at least 120g/L residual sugar;

6 Puttonyos requires at least 150g/L residual sugar.

Fun Fact: the Tokaji trade council eliminated 3 and 4 Puttonyos in 2013 in an effort to raise the quality of Tokaji, but 3 and 4 can still be found in the market.

Question 10

Describe the flavor profile of Tokaj Aszú.

Answer 10

• Full body
• Sweet
• High acidity
• Fresh + dried fruits
• Citrus
• Vanilla
• Caramel/crème caramel

Question 11

How age-worthy is Tokaj Aszú?

Answer 11

Very age-worthy

This is thanks to the high acidity and deliberate oxidation during maturation.

Question 12

Is Tokaj Azsú the only style of Furmint made in Hungary?

Answer 12

No

Styles of Tokaj range from dry to medium, and they can be made with or without Botrytis-affected grapes.