Description
The 1990 Royal Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos is a notable vintage from Hungary's esteemed Tokaj wine region, renowned for its sweet wines made from grapes affected by noble rot. This vintage showcases the region's dedication to quality winemaking, especially following Hungary's political changes in 1989.
Tasting Notes:
Betsek Vineyard: This wine exhibits a bright orange-gold color with a complex nose of smoke, honey, dates, and dried apricots. On the palate, it offers moderate concentration with a sleek aftertaste of mandarins and barley sugar, finishing dry with good length. Birsalmás Vineyard: Described as having rich apricot, lemongrass, lychee, and wilted wildflower aromas, this wine is considered capable of competing with top vintages of renowned sweet wines like Sauternes.
Maturity and Enjoyment:
The 1990 Royal Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos has matured gracefully over 35 years. While some bottles may show signs of aging, well-preserved ones continue to offer a pleasurable experience. For instance, a tasting note from January 2024 mentions that the wine is "very mature" and "still very pleasurable."
Serving Recommendations:
To fully appreciate its complexity, serve this wine slightly chilled, around 12°C (54°F). It pairs excellently with blue-veined cheeses, foie gras, or fruit-based desserts. Alternatively, it can be savored on its own as a contemplative dessert wine.
In summary, the 1990 Royal Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos stands as a testament to the enduring quality of Tokaji wines, offering a rich and nuanced tasting experience for those fortunate enough to enjoy it.