Szent Donát, Magma (Kékfrankos), 2019

Szent Donát Winery, Balatonfüred-Csopak Region

This is a real gem of a red wine from a region (Balatonfüred-Csopak) dominated by white wine. More precisely, it comes from the stunning Tihany peninsula that juts out in Lake Balaton. The special meso-climate here enables the grapes to ripen perfectly, with the lake providing a moderating effect on hot summer days, which helps to preserve the acidity and aromas. The grapes (100 percent Kékfrankos) come from Tihany’s Lapi,and Farkasverem vineyards. These basalt tuff and limestone soils also bring structured acidity and minerality to the wine. Kékfrankos is Hungary’s most planted grape and is the same as same variety as Austria’s Blaufränkish. Grapes for this wine were harvested in the second half of September, then spontaneously fermented in open vats, and aged for 10 months in French barrels. It was unclarified and unfiltered. The wine has a vibrant ruby-purple color, and delightful and varietally pure potpourri and sour cherry aromas. It is a medium-bodied wine with lovely fine-grained tannins, lively acidity and minerality. It has graphite and earthy notes, alongside raspberry, anise and more sour cherry. It is focused and long, with a stony finish. It goes wonderfully with pork, veal, duck, lamb, and cheese.