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Slovak Tokaj?
Yes, while Tokaj is primarily associated with Hungary, the wine-growing area also extends to a part of south-eastern Slovakia. This Slovak section produces similar styles of wine, leveraging the same rich history and traditions.
Slovak Tokaj dates back to the early 12th century. Nestled in the southern foothills of the Zemplín Mountains, this area benefits from a unique microclimate and volcanic soils, perfect for cultivating the grapes that produce the renowned Tokaj wines.
The designation "Tokaj" is protected, meaning Slovak winemakers must adhere to specific rules about using the name and producing wine under this prestigious label.
They call it "Noble Rot" Wine -- Botrytis in a glance
Rotting grapes? It's a good thing!
Botrytis Cinerea, or a ‘Noble Rot’ is type of mould that is essential for the production of Tokaj’s sweet wines. It does 2 things to wine: it intensifies the sweetness level and adds flavour complexity. But why do wine-makers cross their fingers for rotting grapes? Botrytis only occurs when the climate is right for it: cool misty mornings, which cause the moist to condense on the berries - ever so encouraging for botrytis - and hot dry afternoons ensure that the mould doesn't take over the grapes! It is a precious phenomenon.
In conclusion, Botrytis dries and shrivels the over-ripe grapes, turning them into raisin-like "cibebas" or “Aszú berries”, concentrating their flavours and sugars, and giving the wines made from them distinct complex flavours: a honeyed character and high amounts of residual sugar.
Wine Styles of Tokaj
The Slovak Tokaj region, with its rich viticultural tradition, offers a diverse range of wines that are both unique and reflective of its varied terroirs. Despite being lesser-known on the global stage, these wines, from the aromatic whites to sweet dessert wines - so typical of the Tokaj region, possess a distinct charm that captivates the palate.
The unique combination of the three main grape varieties allows the Slovak Tokaj region to produce a diverse range of wine styles, including: