High end merlot was a thing in Hungary two decades ago, inspired by the great supertuscan examples if I’m not mistaken. Expensive big, beefy reds are

now mostly out of favor here as well, but that’s a different story. The Gere Solus was (and still is) one, if not the most coveted example of this style. And well, it’s amazing as a 16 year old wine.

At its peak, I guess. A beautiful nose that evokes great Margaux – elegant and noble, with graphite, espresso and leathery notes all seamlessly integrated. Full-bodied, amazingly concentrated and while big, it’s smooth and polished, too. Endlessly deep and so complex. It’s a tad sweet and hedonistic, though, the 15% alcohol sticking out on the finish – a bit leaner style would earn it a really high score from me. Still it’s a serious, great wine. 92 points. Drink now – 2027. Current vintage (2019) is 16200 HUF (42 EUR), available at many Hungarian retailers (for example here).