Bencze Birtok, Petillant Rosé 2022

Situated near Lake Balaton on the basaltic Mount Szent György, are the sloping vineyards of the Bencze Birtok estate. Founded in 2011, initially as a more personal experimentation project, István Bencze cultivates 20 hectares of both newly planted and old vines in partnership with nature. The overarching drive of the project is to reflect the terroir and local character through native and forgotten Hungarian grape varietals. Wild yeasts drive spontaneous fermentation, and the wines are produced without sulphites or filtration with a focus on ageing in various clay amphorae. Cabernet Sauvignon, direct-press Chenin Blanc, Blauberger and Zervin are co-macerated for 7 days to create Petillant Rosé 2022. On the 8th day they are gently pressed and left to ferment in stainless steel tanks, before bottling with 16g residual sugar. An astringent nose of salt-fermented red berries flows perfectly into crisp notes of hibiscus, fresh pomegranate juice and umeboshi. The perfect aperitif to get your guests hungry! Petillant Rosé 2022 would pair well with manchego and Jamón Ibérico bites.