We have been browsing news on the Internet, when we came accross the results of 2020 Sakura Wine Awards. Strangely enough, the results were announced months ago, still there was no coverage of the medals in Hungarian media at all, and not much in international media. What happened is that people were and are busy with reading news about the global pandemic, and the shine of these medals could not shine enough. Shame, but we – and seemingly our colleagues haven’t noticed the announcement. Later is better than never, so here we go: at the 7th “SAKURA” Japan Women’s Wine Awards 4,333 wines from 29 countries were assessed by total 560 Japanese female judges who were all active wine experts in the industry. This year 6 Hungarian wines have won medal (out of 12 entries), which is a significant increasefrom last year (only one medal, a double gold for Juliet Victor, Tokaj).

All results of 2020 Sakura Women’s Wine Awards

Analysis of the Results

Double-double gold for Juliet Victor Tokaji Szamorodni

This year Pannon Tokaj 6 puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2014 and Juliet Victor Tokaji Szamorodni 2017 have received the prestigious double gold. The Mád estate of Juliet Victor received the same acknowledgement for the 2016 vintage last year – this is what we can call constantly outstanding quality! “Gorgeous and richly intense golden yellow. Honeyed apple, apricot and nectarine fruits note along with honey, bees wax and orange marmalade. Touch of wet stone and saffron like spiceness as well. Luscious and opulent mouthfeel, yet supported by nice and precise acidity. Gorgeous ripe fruits give almost creamy texture. Very confident and reassuring wine.” (Wataru Iwata ASI Asia & Oceania Best Sommelier).

More about JV Szamorodni 2017

Gold for Villány red wine

Apart from the above mentioned double gold medals, 2 gold medals have been given to Hungary. One for the 2013 vintage of Pannon Tokaj 6 puttonyos Tokaji Aszú, while the other gold went to Sauska estate Sauska Cuvée 7 Siklós 2016. We like to believe that Hungary is a red wine country, still there are much less gold winner red wines, therefore it is an extra pleasure to hear about results like this. “Ruby red rim with purple hues. Clean and focused, a bit on the cold side – very much in character talking about the high-elevation Siklós vineyards. Energizing and light the first sip with vanilla, cloves, meadow flowers, especially lavender. On the palate interesting saltiness, supple tannins and playful finish.” “Aromas of green olives, herbs and berries follow through to a full body. Firm and chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows intensity and richness.” (James Suckling 94 pts.)

More about Sauska Cuvée 7 Siklós 2016

Silver for Grand Tokaj No8 Dry

Apart from the gold medals, two silver medals were given to Hungary. One for Bognár Selection Villány 2017 red wine, and one for Grand Tokaj No8 Dry 2016. Another evidence for Tokaj’s potential to give stunning dry white wines. No8 is a blend of 70% Hárslevelű and 30% Furmint. “Light yellow-green colour. It’s clean fragrance is defined by the fruitiness of the vintage with pear, smoky apricots and spring flowers. The taste of the complex blend of Hárslevelű and Furmint is a testament of the diverse flavors of the eight wine communities of the Tokaj wine region. It’s aromatic sense of smell is followed by it’s harmonic taste. The Hárslevelű honey-flower aroma complements excellently with the vitality and fullness of the Furmint.”

More about Grand Tokaj No8 Dry