We have a Christmas tradition of toasting with Tokaji. My uncle now also brings a bottle of Tokaji for each of his nieces and nephew. My question is how long can you keep Tokaji and under what conditions should it be kept for optimal flavor.
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
Tokaji comes in several forms and grades of concentration and sweetness. I assume you are referring to the celebrated sweet version that has the influence of "noble rot" on the grapes. These berries are formed into a paste that is added in portions (called puttonyos) to a base wine. Tokaji Aszu is available in designations from 3 to 6 puttonyos, and this translates to the intensity and residual sweetness of the wine. Two even sweeter versions are Tokaji Aszu Esszencia and Esszencia.
Coming back to your question, in its richest form Tokaji Aszu - and the Esszencia grades - are nearly immortal. Even with a high level of sweetness, the acidity level is so high that the best wines have a razor-sharp equilibrium. This makes for a wine that can be cellared for a lifetime or more, but can certainly be thrilling to drink young!
