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Cserszegi fűszeres is an incredibly aromatic and refreshing white grape variety created in Hungary. The word "fűszeres" coded in its name means spicy. These berries produce crisp-acid, highly perfumed white wines. Smelling of fresh grapes, jasmine, roses, and light spices, these wines are a perfect, spring-scented drink for relaxation.
Read moreThis variety is very popular in Hungary, especially around Lake Balaton. When choosing this wine, the most important thing to know is that its qualities are best revealed in light styles.
Almost all wines of this variety are made without any oak contact, fermenting them in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures. This helps lock the explosive fruitiness in the glass. Although the wine is usually made completely dry (Száraz), its intense floral and spice aroma creates an illusion of sweetness on the palate. Some winemakers also leave a bit of residual sugar, creating semi-dry variants.
Due to its sharp aromatic profile and good acidity, Cserszegi fűszeres is a wonderful aperitif and a friend to Asian food. The wine pairs perfectly with spicier Wok dishes, sushi, smoked fish, and fresh vegetable salads. It won't get lost even when paired with more intensely flavored chicken or pork chops with sweet and sour sauces.
The name is pronounced roughly like: Chair-seg-ee few-se-resh. The grape was bred in 1960 by Hungarian scientist Károly Bakonyi. He crossed the very early ripening Irsai Olivér variety with the noble Gewürztraminer. The goal was to create a cold-hardy, high-yielding, and highly aromatic grape. "Cserszeg" is the Hungarian village where the trials took place, and "fűszeres" describes the spicy scent inherited from Gewürztraminer.
Absolutely not. Like most very light, aromatic white wines, this drink is meant for quick consumption immediately after opening. The most important thing is to chill it very well (to 8–10 °C) to highlight the crisp acidity that balances the intense, spring-like floral aroma.
