Turán is a Hungarian cross, a teinturier grape variety (whose flesh is red, or rather inky purple) with poor reputation. It ripens early, has a muscat-like aroma but it’s very tannic and slightly bitter to taste. A blending component to boost color, not much else – at least in most winemakers’ eye.
But it’s getting popular in the Mátra wine region as a single varietal wine, there is clear demand for it from consumer’s side. The 2018 from Csernyik is one of the best examples out there.
This smells of Muscat grapes, lychee, blueberry concentrate and violets – an explosion of fruits. There’s a savoury side to it, luckily, a Cabernet-like darkness. Medium-bodied with a smooth attack, but gains weight on the finish – great, powerful, but ripe tannins add real structure (think Mourvedre or Cabernet). Dense and full of flavor but not heavy. It can be divisive because of it’s distinct aroma profile, yet it’s so unique and interesting. Highly recommended.
Rating: very good, 88 points.
Price: 2800 HUF (around 8€).
Stockist: Borfalu Bortéka, cellar door.
Tasted: May, 2020.
Value: great.
Source: own purchase.
Drinking window: now-2025.