Hungarian flagship reds II.: Sauska Cuvée 7 Siklós, 2019

Next in the big red lineup I mentioned last time was the Sauska 7 Siklós, a Bordeaux blend from Villány. Compared to the Merengő, it comes from a warmer region and there is no kékfrankos included in it, yet the wine is not that dissimilar.

A bit restrained, perhaps in a transition phase. Some development on the nose, a touch of tobacco and forest floor on top of classical leafy black fruits. It evolves nicely, clearly smells like a ripe merlot-cabernet blend. Smooth, creamy and full-bodied, this is quite lush, in a ripe, polished international red style – yet it’s not overblown. My only little issue is the alcohol (the label says 14,5%) which makes the finish a bit hot. 90 points. Drink now – 2028. 10900 HUF or 29,50 in Germany at borstore.de.