Bencze Pinot Gris

Vintage: 2023

Origin: Badacsony, Hungary

Grapes: Pinot Gris

Alcohol: 11%

István Bencze sources this Pinot Gris from a cool, forested plot in Várvölgy, just west of Szent György-hegy in Balaton. The 20-year-old vines root into heavy clay and volcanic basalt soils. In the cellar, whole bunches are direct-pressed and fermented in 500-litre oak barrels, resting on full lees for 11 months. It is bottled under crown cap, unfined, unfiltered, and with zero added sulphur, keeping a tiny touch of natural spritz and around 5 g/L of residual sugar.

A faint smoky, reductive edge clears into aromas of dried apricot, ripe orchard fruit, and soft white flowers. On the palate, the wine balances a creamy, lees-driven texture with bright acidity, a light effervescence, and a savoury, saline mineral streak. Serve it slightly chilled alongside roast chicken, pork chops, or rich mushroom dishes.=