2017 Vylyan Cabernet Franc, Villany, Hungary

Vylyan is one of the most decorated wineries in Hungary, making truly outstanding wines. The first 30 hectares were planted in 1992 by Pál Debreczeni, with the vineyard now standing at 125 hectares, comprising a blend of international varieties and indigenous ones. Following Pál’s death in 2004, Vylyan has been run by his widow Mónika. Everything here is dedicated to quality, from seasoning their own oak for barrels, through to very low yields (less than the average for Burgundy Grand Crus!) and using integrated pest management as opposed to spraying. They are currently also doing trials on biodynamics. This is a multi-award-winning producer that proves just how good Hungarian wine can be.

Hand harvested, de-stemmed and lightly crushed. Fermented in open top fermenters with pumping over. Aged 16 months in Hungarian oak barrels.

Deep coloured, the nose if rich and deep, with prune, cassis and dark plums. The palate is very broad, with abundant ripe black fruits and well integrated oak.

Grilled meats. Pork belly.