Neighbor Borderless Selection

The Neighbor Borderless Selection invites you on a fascinating journey through the wine world of Austria and Hungary, presenting four wines from both countries that showcase the same grape varieties but with different terroirs and vinification techniques.

Each pairing showcases the diversity and shared heritage of these neighbouring wine regions, offering an intriguing comparison of two distinct wine traditions.

Naturwein

The TAFERNER Grüner Veltliner Natural 2023 delivers a lively, fresh palate with aromas of quince, citrus, and white blossoms, enriched by herbal and nutty undertones. Its creamy texture and mineral-driven finish come from 6 months on lees, with no sulfur added.

Meanwhile, the KRISTINUS Kelet Cuvée 2021, a complex blend of Furmint, Grüner Veltliner, and Sauvignon Blanc, showcases a more structured, vibrant character with notable mineral notes. The extended skin contact and aging in amphorae and barrels contribute to its intense, layered profile. Both wines highlight natural vinification and minimal intervention.

Kékfrankos

The SZENT DONÁT Magma Kékfrankos 2020 showcases a vibrant expression of organic Kékfrankos from the volcanic soils of the Tihany crater basin. It is crafted through small open vat fermentation and 10-12 months of barrel aging, offering a fresh, terroir-driven experience.

In contrast, the NADOR Ried Wanzer 2015, made from Blaufränkisch, is a more mature wine with deep ruby hues and pronounced minerality. After 26 months in barrels and 36 months in the bottle, it exhibits ripe plum notes, framed by nougat and firm elegance.

Riesling

The WINZERFAMILIE GREGOR SCHUP Riesling 2021 offers a layered, complex profile with tropical fruit, hints of pineapple and peach, and a refined acidity balanced by mineral undertones. It’s a vibrant wine with aging potential, pairing well with poultry, rabbit, and robust pasta dishes.

On the other hand, the CSERI PINCÉSZET VIII. Octavus Pannonhalmi Rajnai Rizling 2S is a premium Riesling from Hungary, known for its floral and peach aromas, with a rich minerality and surprising fruit-forward palate, despite barrel aging. It pairs wonderfully with fish, Italian dishes, and grilled foods.

Süßwein

The SALZL Goldene Finesse 2021 is a luscious Austrian dessert wine with rich aromas of ripe pear, peach, passion fruit, and elderflower, balanced by herbal and citrus notes. Its palate offers complexity with peach, dried fruits, honeydew, and caramel, balanced by a perfect acidity and sweet finish. Aged in oak, it promises longevity.

In comparison, the GRAND TOKAJ 5 Puttonyos Aszú is a legendary Hungarian wine with notes of botrytized berries, peach, orange peel, and praline. Its palate is filled with dried fruits, citrus, and apricot, finishing with white chocolate and vanilla from barrel aging. Both wines exhibit remarkable complexity, though Tokaji leans more toward fresh and dried fruit richness, while Salzl offers floral and herbal nuances.