Named after the coloured sandstone it was grown on, this Riesling is from east-facing slopes on the edge of the Pfälzerwald (Palatinate Forest) with a higher altitude than the majority of the vineyards. Sun only reaches these vines in the mornings and the grapes ripen later in the harvest; 2022 saw the golden yellow fruit gathered at the end of October, still with great acidity. After a short maceration the grapes were pressed and aged in old wooden barrels for 12 months, before bottling with a minimal dose of sulphur. After a few months in the bottle, it was ready to release — a delightful balance of fruit, the acidity typical of the variety, and lots of character. Flinty and slightly smoky on the nose, it calls to mind freshly sliced citrus with a herbal touch, light spiciness and a creamy mouthfeel. Very much ready to drink, it’s a great match for bitter leaves dressed with (full-fat) yoghurt and toasted sunflower seeds. Drink chilled.
Fruit Loops Red 2022 makes us think of freshly picked wild blueberries after summer rain. Plenty of fruit on the nose with well-integrated tannins that give it great structure and a more serious note. Made with Blaufränkisch, Cabernet Franc and Syrah and aged partially in amphora, it’s a great match for game or roasted beetroot.
2023 was one of Bence’s favourite harvests to date, a lengthy harvest that stretched over almost two months. Although hard work as always, there was time to swim and sail on Lake Balaton and, come October, the last grapes were picked without any risk of overripeness and still with a crisp acidity. The Riesling for Diszkó 2023 was harvested a week apart at the end of September, the majority direct-pressed and a small amount given 24 hours skin contact to add an aromatic complexity. Furmint, a Hungarian grape variety which makes up the other 50%, was picked in several rounds between late September and mid October. The result? Floral and fruit-driven Riesling aged in stainless steel and oak meets the depth of Furmint from oak barrels in a harmonious, delightful bottle. Drink chilled.