Sweet Wine of the Month – Disznókő Hetedik Tokaji 6 Puttonyos Zéta Aszú 2002
A rare gem from the heart of Tokaj — a wine of timeless depth, seductive richness, and singular character. Hetedik is one of the crown jewels of the Disznókő Aszú collection, and to our knowledge, the very first Tokaji Aszú ever made exclusively from Zéta berries. Its origin, uniqueness, and astonishing freshness make it more than just July’s featured sweet wine — it may well be a once-in-a-lifetime favorite. Recently re-corked and available only in limited quantities, this aszú promises unforgettable pleasure for decades to come.
The Secret of Zéta
Crafted exclusively from 100% Zéta aszú berries, Hetedik stands as a trailblazer in Tokaji history. Zéta, a cross between Furmint and Bouvier, ripens early and delivers fragrant, creamy-textured aszú wines — a grape that has quietly reshaped the possibilities of the region. The 2002 vintage gave Zéta everything it could wish for: early botrytisation, vibrant acidity, and profound concentration. The result is a sweet wine of extraordinary richness, yet with remarkable longevity and lift — a true collector’s piece, still dazzling today.
Why “Hetedik”?
The name carries a wealth of meaning. Hetedik means “seventh” in Hungarian — a nod to the Greek letter Zéta, the seventh in the alphabet. In Hungarian folk tradition, the seventh also symbolizes uniqueness, mystery, and magic — an apt metaphor for this wine. Rare and unrepeatable, Hetedik embodies a perfect trinity of a distinctive grape variety, an outstanding vintage, and meticulous winemaking.
Tasting Notes – A Story in Every Sip
After more than 20 years of patient aging in bottle, Hetedik glows a deep amber in the glass. Its bouquet is luxurious and layered: notes of dried apricots, plum jam, roasted coffee, and black tea unfold with poise and complexity. The palate is still vibrant, with an elegant sweetness that envelopes the mouth in silky harmony. The finish is long, graceful, and deeply expressive — a showcase of everything that makes Tokaji Aszú legendary.
Vinification – Crafted with Precision
Each berry was hand-picked over several passes, then soaked for 48 hours in fermenting must to extract the purest essence of Zéta. The resulting „aszú dough” was gently pressed and fermented in stainless steel. The wine then matured for 2.5 years in oak — partly in new barrels — allowing its rich aromas to evolve and deepen. Bottled in February 2006, it has since matured to glorious refinement.
With 12.5% alcohol, 169 g/l residual sugar, and 11.4 g/l acidity, it is at once vibrant, exciting, and elegant.
Serving & Pairing Recommendations
Serve slightly chilled at 11–13 °C to unveil its full aromatic spectrum and perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. Hetedik is a showstopper on its own, yet pairs beautifully with blue cheeses, fruit-forward desserts (think baked apple or poached apricot), citrus-infused salads, or even savory dishes with a touch of spice from the East.
Hetedik — a wine that leaves a lasting impression not only on the palate, but in memory. For lovers of complex sweet wines and the timeless elegance of Tokaji Aszú, this is an unmissable experience.
Available throughout July with 15% off in the Borbutik, selected wine merchants, our online partners, and by the glass at the Sárga Borház restaurant.
