Well, it is not as easy as the photo may suggest. Harvest is just about to begin for Etyeki Kúria winery in their Sopron vineyard, and of course it will take a long time for the grape to be transformed into bottled wine. The second vintage of this Merlot has not long been released to the market and immediately it has become the favourite of several wine experts. As Kitty Borsos manager of Etyeki Kúria wine bar in Etyek says, “this wine helps to get away from the every day troubles”.

A renowned wine blog called ‘Művelt Alkoholista’ (‘Educated Alcoholic’) has also written a praising review of the wine: “Many of us are bored with the grape variety, but this wine is unexpectedly refined and it truly reflects the terroir. A world class wine with serious ageing potential.”

For Kúria Sopron Merlot 2017 the grapes were harvested by hand and carefully destemmed. It fermented for 21 days on the skins with manual punching down and pumping over, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation. It matured for 14 months, 70% in used, 30% in new Hungarian and French oak barrels of 300 litres. “Medium ruby colour. Deep, fruit-driven nose with kirsch, sour cherry, plum and prune, the spiciness of cinnamon and clove, a touch of medicinal character. The palate is dominated by plum and stewed plum, the rich notes of kirsch as well as baking spices thanks to barrel ageing.”

If you happen to stay in Hungary, you can taste this wine free of charge at Etyeki Kúria wine bar throughout September (only 40 minutes drive from Budapest). Also, the wine is available at discounted price in the webshop of the winery.

More about Kúria Sopron Merlot 2017 and Etyeki Kúria