International Wine Challenge is probably the most meticulous wine contest of the world with a complex process, during which medal winning wines are tasted on three different occasions. The contest is conducted twice a year, 2019 Tranche 1 results were announced in December. 212 wine experts from 23 countries were judging the wines over four days in London. We have not published the results yet – during Christmas season these serious news are less popular –, but now here we go: Hungary entered only 9 wines, of which only 5 wines were awarded medals (4 wines received Commended evaluation). No gold medals were given, at this IWC we can list only 1 silver and 4 bronze medals. Hungarian wineries seem to have less enthusiasm regarding participation in international wine contests, it might be interesting to investigate the reasons behind this fact. But now let us concentrate on the brave ones, who sent their samples: Zsirai Winery from Mád (Tokaj) has been the most successful Hungarian competitor with 2 bronze and 1 silver medals, while Sauska (Tokaj) and Tornai (Somló) received 1-1 bronze medal. See the detailed description of the medal winners given by the jury below.

 Zsirai Tokaji Hárslevelű 2015, Tokaj, 91 IWC points (silver)

„Quince, grapefruit, root ginger and roasted apple form an exotic palate that leads to a refreshing, long finish.”

Zsirai Nagy -Somlói Furmint Dry 2015, Somló, 89 IWC points (bronze)

„Light and aromatic, with floral and almond notes. A perfumed acidity lifts the glossy apricot and peach fruit.”

Zsirai Tokaji Aszú 6 puttonyos 2013, Tokaj, 86 IWC points (bronze)

„Apricot and marmalade on the nose with quince and creme brulee. Lovely acidity and rich fruity sweet palate. Perfectly balanced.”

Sauska Cuvée 113, 2017, Tokaj, 89 IWC points (bronze)

„Refreshing, showing ripe apple, peach, lemon, cream and hints of ginger spice lead through to a fragrant and filigreed finish.”

Tornai Prémium Juhfark 2016, Somló, 85 IWC points (bronze)

„Gooseberry and ripe lemon, with notes of marmalade, honey and a fresh light perfume lead to a fine finish.”