What makes Disznókő wines unique? What is their motto? When and how to drink them? Which vintage should you take with you to a desert island? These are the very questions that our director, László Mészáros answered in an interview with Le Figaro’s prominent wine column.

Founded in 1826, Le Figaro is one of the world’s oldest and most influential newspapers. Its popular wine column offers a wealth of information to help readers choose, purchase, and enjoy wine. Their „Sweet Wine Minute” videos feature brief but engaging interviews with some of the most renowned wineries around the world. Our director, László Mészáros was interviewed at the prestigious 2 Michelin-starred Pavillon Ledoyen L’Abysse restaurant in Paris – widely regarded as the best Japanese restaurant in the city – about our 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2013.

How would you define a sweet wine?  

Perhaps it is everything that comforts us. Its fruitiness, its texture – all pleasant things. It’s not necessarily about the sugar content, but about the delightful sensation it evokes.

What is the motto of Disznókő Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 2013? 

Freshness, balance, and long finish. 

What do you like most about this wine? 

Its originality and character. It boasts a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and a touch of bitterness.

What color has an Aszú?

The color of an Aszú can vary depending on the vintage and age. In the case of the 2013 Aszú, which is almost 10 years old, it has developed a golden-ochre hue.

Can we add ice cubes? 

I would not advise it.

If this wine were a novel, which would it be? 

This wine was created at the crossroads of East and West. I can imagine it as Mathias Enard’s Compass, for example, as part of his history of the East. Or if it was a novel for young readers, it might be The Danube Boatman by Jules Verne. 

What if it were a song? 

„Tonight” by Tina Turner and David Bowie. As the song says: „Tonight everything will be all right” – that’s very important.

What makes Disznókő wines unique?

„What sets Disznókő wines apart is the distinctive fire that comes from their volcanic soil, which imbues them with a unique power and dynamism. Even though Aszú is white and sweet, it also displays some of the characteristics of red wines, particularly in its tannic notes.”

What is the best time to enjoy it?

Sunday morning, around 11am, while preparing a meal and incorporating the wine into the dish. The remaining wine in the bottle can be consumed with the meal and at the end of the meal.

Which vintage would you take with you if you were alone on a desert island?

1999. It’s a great classic with acidity and balance that I love.

What is the most characteristic flavor of the 2013 aszú?

Apricot, citrus, and stone fruit.

Which dish would you pair it with at Pavillon Ledoyen L’Abysse?

I’d try it with a white turnip tsukemono. There’s a surprising harmony of sour and bitter flavors with the sweetness. It’s an interesting pairing, as the spices bring out the fruitiness of the wine, but also soften the sweetness slightly. An unusual but very interesting combination. 

Click on the image to watch the original video in French: