Situated to the east of Nyulaszo and Szt Tamas in the "basin of the 1st Growths” in Mád, Betsek faces Kiraly – the old Royal Vineyard – and Kovago. However it is colder than these, and the lower part of the vineyard can even freeze in spring. Being on the bottom of the valley it is much more "earthy” than the other 1st Growths. It grows into a wonderful swan with age. The old Betsek from 1990 is showing what this vineyard is made of, and the violets and honey flavours makes it a firm favourite with a lot of Tokaji fans. In 1992 it was the only vineyard to produce any wines of quality and although the yield was tiny, the wine was outstanding and has not yet been released. The 1993 Betsek is emerging as one of the richest and most vivid of the great 93 vintage.

The skill and traditions of producing Aszu wines have changed little since the 17th Century. Hand picked Aszu berries are macerated with top quality base wines. The resultant Aszu wines mature at different sweetness levels, generally 4,5 or 6 puttonyos. Careful pruning in the 1st and 2nd Growth vineyards amongst their 80 hectares, hand picking and maturation for a minimum of 3 years in Gönci casks in 13th century cellars, ensure these rich, refreshing wines are produced to the highest quality.

Wine maker notes

Situated to the east of Nyulaszo and Szt Tamas in the "basin of the 1st Growths” in Mád, Betsek (pronounced Bet-shek) faces Kiraly – the old Royal Vineyard – and Kovago. However it is colder than these, and the lower part of the vineyard can even freeze in spring. Being on the bottom of the valley it is much more "earthy” than the other 1st Growths. It grows into a wonderful swan with age. The old Betsek from 1990 is showing what this vineyard is made of, and the violets and honey flavours makes it a firm favourite with a lot of Tokaji fans. In 1992 it was the only vineyard to produce any wines of quality and although the yield was tiny, the wine was outstanding and has not yet been released. The 1993 Betsek is emerging as one of the richest and most vivid of the great 93 vintage. 50% Furmint with 45% Harslevelu and 5% Muscat, it was born to make quite "earthy austere wines which can appear closed in their youth, but with age all this loosens up and the wines come into their own. The skill and traditions of producing Aszu wines have changed little since the 17th Century. Hand picked Aszu berries are macerated with top quality base wines. The resultant Aszu wines mature at different sweetness levels, generally 4,5 or 6 puttonyos. Careful pruning in the 1st and 2nd Growth vineyards amongst their 80 hectares, hand picking and maturation for a minimum of 3 years in Gönci casks in 13th century cellars, ensure these rich, refreshing wines are produced to the highest quality.

Technical notes

Alcohol: 11% Sugar g/l: 156 Acid g/l: 12.40

Food pairing

Enjoy cool (10 - 12 degrees). Tokaji Aszu wines have always been appreciated served on their own as a celebration drink. Today chefs all over the world are being challenged by this re-born classic wine and some favourite accompaniments are Foie Gras, fruit tarts, chocolate and Blue Cheese. Royal Tokaji wines are also enjoyed with cigars.