Furmint is the principal grape of Tokaji Aszú, one of the world's great sweet wines. It's thin-skinned and susceptible to botrytis, producing intensely concentrated sweet wines, though dry versions are increasingly prized.
Typical colour: Deep gold to amber (sweet)
Pale (dry) to deep gold (sweet)
Based on available examples, dry Furmint wines typically range from 12.0% to 13.0% ABV. Some sources suggest alcohol levels may increase slightly in certain regions.
Furmint offers a fascinating aromatic profile, beginning with primary notes of crisp orchard fruit like pear and apple, often alongside bright citrus hints of grapefruit. As it ages, secondary aromas of flinty minerality and a unique, almost petrol-like edge emerge, building complexity. With further maturation, tertiary notes of honey, dried apricot, and even a subtle smokiness can develop, adding layers of intriguing depth.
Furmint wines offer a compelling palate profile defined by bracing, citrus-driven acidity and a medium body that feels surprisingly substantial. While typically dry, these wines showcase flavors of lemon juice, pineapple, and sometimes a subtle saline minerality, with a distinct lack of overt fruitiness in many expressions. Though a white wine, Furmint can possess a pleasant textural component from phenolic compounds, hinting at a subtle structure reminiscent of white tea.
Adds floral aromas and softens Furmint's acidity; a classic Tokaji blend.
Provides aromatic complexity and enhances floral notes in Tokaji.
Adds freshness and fruitiness, often used in dry Furmint blends.
Contributes acidity and structure to blends.
Aromatic lift and complexity.
Understanding regional style differences helps identify origin in blind tasting.
Hungary, Austria, Slovenia
Rarely planted in the New World.
Very high acid + Tokaj + sweet or dry
Appellations and wine regions where Furmint is permitted or required:
Key grape variety of the region, used in both dry and sweet wines.
Listed as a permitted grape within the Soave region.
Listed as a permitted grape within the Soave region.
These grapes are commonly confused with Furmint in blind tasting. Here's how to tell them apart:
Why confused: tokaj_partner
Key identifiers: (Sweet) Deep gold, intensely honeyed, very high acidity. (Dry) Mineral, smoky, fresh.
Notable vintages for Furmint:
Parents: Gouais Blanc × Unknown
Early budding, moderate yield, known for producing wines with high acidity and potential for botrytis. Considered a 'classic' Tokaji Furmint.
Late budding, lower yield, produces wines with concentrated flavors and good structure. Often used for Aszú production.
Moderate budding and yield. Exhibits good resistance to fungal diseases. Produces wines with balanced acidity and fruit character.
High vigor, high yielding. Produces wines with lighter body and aromatic profile. Suitable for dry Furmint wines.
Books and articles about Furmint: