Vylyan Csóka (Vylyan Winery) 2019 [Villány Csóka] (Hungary / Red / Rare Ancient Variety, Fruity)

■ From the Tragedy of Phylloxera to the Pécs Research Institute's Gene Bank
Centuries ago, the black grape variety "Csókaszőlő" was widely popular in the Carpathian Basin (around present-day Hungary). However, by the end of the 19th century, like many other varieties, Csókaszőlő was almost completely wiped out by phylloxera (grapevine root aphid), which devastated vineyards across Europe, and was subsequently forgotten.

But a miracle happened. A few vines miraculously remained in the gene bank of Hungary's "Pécs Research Institute." Approximately 20 years ago, the institute began serious research and revival efforts for this rare ancient variety.

■ Color: Filling the glass is a bright ruby hue, transparent yet full of life.

■ Aroma: Vibrant fruitiness and spicy aromas burst from the glass. The delicate floral notes of rosehip and the sweet spice of licorice are exquisitely interwoven with the fresh fruitiness of sour cherry as it lingers.

■ Taste: While possessing a firm structure (full-bodied), it is by no means heavy, with an surprisingly supple mouthfeel. The beautifully balanced, refreshing acidity and velvety soft tannins meld harmoniously, allowing you to enjoy the unique and profound flavors characteristic of this ancient variety.

■ Blessed Mother Earth (Soil)
Vylyan's vineyards boast a superb terroir, with a base of mineral-rich "limestone bedrock" covered by a topsoil of "loess" and "clay" that offers excellent water retention and aeration. This soil imparts beautiful acidity and a core of elegant structure to Csóka.

■ Careful Adjustment to Maximize Ingredients (Winemaking)
During maceration, "pumping over" (liquid circulation) is thoroughly performed to gently extract beautiful color and smooth components from the grape skins. To highlight the pure flavor of the grape itself, old barrels—specifically "second-use barrels" and "third-use barrels"—are used instead of new ones. Malolactic fermentation and 6 months of aging are patiently carried out in the same barrels, resulting in a remarkably mellow and harmonious taste, free of harsh edges.

With its unique fresh acidity, soft tannins, and pleasant spiciness, Csóka is a versatile, food-friendly wine that enhances the flavors of a wide range of dishes.

• ■ Light Meat Dishes (Roast Pork, Herb-Crusted Chicken) It enhances the umami of the meat, while Csóka's elegant acidity provides a refreshing finish.
• ■ Tomato-Based Pasta (Amatriciana, Bolognese) The pleasant sour cherry-like acidity of the wine perfectly synchronizes with the deep richness of tomato sauce.
• ■ Semi-Hard and Hard Cheeses (Comté, Gouda Cheese) The spicy aroma reminiscent of licorice and balanced acidity perfectly complement the creamy fat of the cheese.