2023 Affinitas - Harslevelu Tokaji (750ml)

Affinitás is a project built on relationships with growers and winemakers across Hungary's diverse regions, assembled by importer Bryce Eddy with deep knowledge of the country's terroirs. Rather than owning a single estate, Affinitás works with small producers to bring lesser known Hungarian varieties to a wider audience, sourcing this bottling from vineyards in Tokaj in the country's far northeast.

This wine is made from Hárslevelű, whose name translates to linden leaf for its resemblance to that tree's foliage. It is an offspring of Furmint, though its other parent grape remains unknown, and it ranks among Hungary's more widely planted varieties even as it gains recognition on its own as a rising Hungarian flagship. The grapes are grown on the volcanic soils that define Tokaj and vinified entirely in stainless steel, a technique that keeps the wine bright and preserves its natural aromatics without any oak influence.

The wine shows notes of lemon, elderflower, and honey, with a touch of lychee and melon on the nose. On the palate it is crisp and vibrant, light to medium in body, with underripe peach flavors carrying through a fresh, lively finish. It pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad, soft cheeses, or simple seafood dishes.