In the heart of Hungary lies a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts – the Somló wine region. Nestled on the slopes of an extinct volcano, Somló has earned a reputation for producing unique and exceptional wines, each bottle telling a story of the region’s rich terroir and the mastery of its winemakers.

Unveiling Somló’s Terroir

The Volcanic Soil Magic

The cornerstone of Somló’s viticultural allure is undoubtedly its volcanic soil. The region is home to some of the oldest volcanic formations in Europe, offering a distinctive terroir that imparts a singular character to its wines. The combination of basalt, loess, and volcanic tuff creates a mineral-rich environment that influences the grapevines in profound ways.

Situated at an altitude of approximately 431 meters, the vineyards of Somló benefit from cool breezes that sweep across Lake Balaton. This elevation provides an extended ripening period, allowing the grapes to develop complex flavors while retaining a refreshing acidity. The unique microclimate contributes to the formation of well-balanced wines that capture the essence of Somló’s terroir.

Grape Varieties: A Symphony of Unique Tastes

Juhfark

The star of Somló’s grape varieties is undoubtedly Juhfark. This indigenous Hungarian grape thrives in the region’s volcanic soils, producing wines with distinctive characteristics. Known for its full-bodied nature and intense minerality, Juhfark wines often age gracefully, evolving into complex and elegant expressions of Somló’s terroir.

Hárslevelű and Furmint

While Juhfark takes the spotlight, Hárslevelű and Furmint also play vital roles in Somló’s viticulture. Hárslevelű, a white grape variety, contributes floral and fruity notes, balancing the robustness of Juhfark. Furmint, famous in Hungary for its role in Tokaj’s sweet wines, showcases its versatility in Somló, offering a crisp and acidic profile that adds depth to the region’s wine portfolio.

The Art of Winemaking

Tradition Meets Innovation

In the cellars of Somló, winemakers combine traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations to craft wines that showcase the unique attributes of the region. The emphasis on minimal intervention allows the terroir to shine through, creating wines that are authentic reflections of Somló’s volcanic landscape.

Many of Somló’s wines benefit from aging, with some Juhfark bottlings gaining complexity and nuance over decades. The volcanic terroir, coupled with the winemakers’ expertise, results in wines that are not only a delight to taste upon release but also offer a fascinating journey of evolution in the bottle.

Embark on a journey through Hungary’s volcanic terroir with our Somló wine selection, and let each sip transport you to the enchanting slopes of this unique wine region.

In conclusion, Somló wines are a testament to the marriage of nature’s wonders and human craftsmanship. The volcanic terroir, coupled with the expertise of Somló’s winemakers, produces wines that are as intriguing as the landscape from which they originate. Explore the volcanic elegance of Somló wines, and let each bottle be a celebration of Hungary’s rich winemaking heritage. Cheers to the extraordinary wines of Somló!