From: Somló, Hungary
Blend: Juhfark and Hárslevelü
Tasting Notes: You’ll love this Pet-Natu with it’s flavors of lime, peach, apricot, and a whisper of pineapple. Produced from the volcanic soils of Somló near the Austrian border, this natural, sparkling wine includes grapes such as Harslevelu and Juhfark. Its aroma presents a blend of floral notes, elderflower, and fresh herbs. With its distinct minerality and hints of cider, its rare bubbles add an extra dimension. Biodynamically farmed in Somló, this straw-yellow and cloudy wine boasts flavors of apple and lemon. Its vibrant acidity offers great freshness. With no added sulphur, its low 10.5% alcohol content ensures a pleasant drinkability. Crafted through the ancestral method, it remains unfined, unfiltered, and is a treat for those who appreciate dry ciders and the crispness of Salty Goses (a type of beer).
Pairing: This charming Pet-Nat offers a delightful pairing opportunity for various dishes. For starters, its lively sparkles complement the creaminess of Töltott tojás (essentially the Hungarian take on deviled eggs), adding a zesty contrast to the warm deviled eggs baked in sour cream. The fresh flavors harmonize well with Feta and broad beans on toast, and the effervescence accentuates the delicate textures in glass noodles with tofu and cilantro.
When it comes to main courses, the wine's subtle effervescence contrasts beautifully roasted/baked chicken (check out the recipe below), while its bright notes amplify the flavors in a dry or smoked salmon donburi. Any seafood, whether sushi or fish and chips, becomes an elevated experience, and for Italian favorites, consider pizza or pasta adorned with white sauce, hints of citrus, and/or garlic.
Chicken-Zucchini Meatballs With Feta
By Ali Slagle
About. Meinklang is an original, family-run mixed farm, set in the middle of the World Heritage Site of the National Park Neusiedlersee, on the Eastern side of the Neusiedlersee Lake, bordering directly on the Hungarian lowlands, where life’s diversity and complexity are celebrated (they own a small parcel here as well, which is where this wine originates).
This farm functions much like an organism, relying not only on the people but also on the local herd of cows which contributes in an essential way with their natural and invaluable fertilizer.
The farm’s diversity is enriched by ancient grains such as spelt, farro, and einkorn whei.
The region. Learn about Somló here.
About the varietal, Juhfark. Check it out, here.
About the varietal, Hárslevelü. Click here for more.
