The ABC of Grapes: Hárslevelü, the White for H

Sweet and intriguing, the famous wines of the Tokaj region in Hungary are truly special desserts in liquid form. Besides the grape varietals Furmint and Muscat de Lunel, Hárslevelü is used in the production of Tokaji, lending it aromatic and spicy flavors. Hungary also produces varietal wines from the Hárslevelü grape, and it is also grown in Slovakia and South Africa.

The 2000 Royal Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos ($35 for 500 ml) is an intensely sweet potion with the distinct aroma of botrytis. It blasts out candied fruit and orange flavors, mingling with honey, ginger and apricot. With a sweetness grade of 5 Puttonyos, this wine is certainly rich and unctuous, and and almost syrupy.