Tokaji (pronounced toe-kai) is Hungary’s most famous export, and it’s considered one of the world’s most prestigious and expensive wines. Louis XIV famously described it the "Wine of Kings, King of Wines" – a view shared by many of today’s wine connoisseurs. The wine’s prestige is also reflected in its price, with top-quality vintages and aged bottles commanding high prices on the international market.
It’s a sweet, complex white wine made primarily from Furmint and Hárslevelű grapes affected by noble rot. Golden in colour with a luscious, thick texture, it is prized for its high acidity and flavours of honey, apricot and spice.
The most popular style is Aszú, which contains a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Its flavours range from honey and apricot to orange peel and marmalade. Additional notes of ginger and clove can also develop if the wine is aged in oak barrels.
With its intense sweetness, Tokaji Aszú pairs beautifully with blue cheeses, foie gras or decadent desserts such as crème brûlée. It also makes a great partner for Asian foods, such as Cantonese sweet and sour pork.