Tokaj, in eastern Hungary, is best-known for the white grape variety furmint. But the genetically-related hárslevelű plays an important role as well - traditionally as a blending partner with furmint and now increasingly as a star soloist. The name “hárslevelű” means linden leaf in Hungarian and captures the citrusy, slightly musky aromatic intensity of the grape. Tokaj native Sarolta Bárdos created her small, family winery in 1999. She is both part of the new generation leading the quality renaissance in Tokaj and one of a long tradition of female winemakers in Hungary, where the men historically worked in the vineyards and the women ran the cellars. Her vineyards are certified organic. Hárslevelű Barakony was fermented and aged in 220-liter Hungarian oak barrels. It has hárslevelű’s signature concentration, rich mouthfeel, and salty minerality balancing sweet fruit. The wine is a generous aperitif as well as an excellent partner to sweet-and-sour or agrodolce dishes.
