Szászi, Balatoni Gyöngyözőbor, 2021

Szászi Winery, Badacsony Region

This is a purely joyful wine to open when something fun and refreshing is in order. The name is not an easy one—gyöngy means pearl in Hungarian, and gyöngyözőbor is a type of lightly sparkling wine (one to 2.5 bars of pressure) which gets its bubbles either naturally, or as in this case, through an injection of carbon dioxide into the tank. Badacsony’s volcanic terroir adds some depth, making this more than just a pleasantly easy-drinking wine. This is a well-balanced blend that really characterizes the region: Cserszegi Fűszeres (34 percent), Muscat Ottonel (23 percent), Furmint (18 percent), and Olaszrizling (25 percent). Muscat Ottonel and Cserszegi Fűszeres are aromatic grapes which bring the perfumey aroma, and Furmint and Olaszrizling add the characteristic Badacsony acidity. Furmint also provides a bit of structure and some tannic frame. This is a light-bodied wine with gentle bubbles. Elderflowers, anise, fennel, and basil dominate the aroma. And there are some opposing vegetal and fresh grass flavors that make the wine even more enjoyable. The refreshing acidity—which is characteristic of Badacsony—is like lime and lemonade (with the slightest amount of residual sugar, about one gram per liter). The slight salty finish is another nod to Badacsony’s volcanic soil. Like all of Szászi’s wines, this one is organic. Drink it cold, and enjoy it with barbecue and salads (or sip it while you are standing around the grill waiting for your meal to cook). You may not be able to pronounce Gyöngyözőbor after you finish the bottle, but that doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy it any less.

Read About The Badacsony Region