Sol Montis Kalja, Zenit 2021

Straw coloured sunshine in a glass. I’ve been immensely impressed with the Hungarian whites this year and this wine is the absolute standout. Whilst we classically don’t often think of Hungary as one of
the premier or even non-premier wine growing regions, I don’t envisage I’ll be saying the same thing in the distant future.

The Sol Montis Kolja Zenit from Matra blossoms with a fresh bouquet of lychee, elderflower and apple. On the palette, apple is in front of the shop, closer to a crisp green cooking apple with lemon and lime. Named after the location of the winery, Sun Mountain delivers a wonderful ambassador for the growing Hungarian wine market. Their mission, to bring Hungarian wine to the international scene, mission accomplished, thankfully.

 
My favourite thing about this vintage is the mile long finish. The acid keeps it alive long after it slips down your throat but stays smooth and balanced the whole way. Medium bodied and low alcohol makes an easy finish with jasmine and rose lingering for years afterwards.

Whilst Zenit is a common wine found in Hungary, we rarely see it on UK shelves. For those who haven’t had the pleasure, broadly speaking this wine is not ten million miles away from a Riesling. A slight sparkle, dry and crispy- pair with a warm summer's day and some rolling clouds.