If you find yourself in Northeastern Italy or northwestern Slovenia on the border stop and visit Boris Kristančič at Brandulin Winery.

Tokaji Aszú … The world renowned Tokaj Aszú!  Often referred to as just Tokaj (pronounced: toe-kai) .   The most sumptuous and most delectable Aszú made only in one place in the world, Tokaj, Hungary; the region is Tokaj-Hegyalja.  But what grape is it?  It is usually the Furmint varietal, but can also be made from other indigenous grapes in Hungary.  One of my favorite Aszú styles is made with the Hárslevelű varietal. 

Juhfark??!!  Don’t look at me! … Okay English speakers have a lot of fun with the name of this varietal, but all jokes aside as this is a truly amazing aromatic, smoky, full body dry white wine that's just delicious!

Yes, I’m partial to this new and ancient area, but I truly love the styles of wine coming out of Central Europe and it’s time for them to re-emerge on to the global market.  It has already started in Europe and only a few gutsy importers are bringing them into the United States.  Okay, I’m one of them, it’s easier to say gutsy than naïve.  So why are Central European Wines the next big thing?