Closer to Ukraine than any city an American might recognize the name of, Tokaj is nestled deep within Northeastern Hungary. Hundreds of miles from the sunny mediterranean, it is farther North than most of Minnesota. In a novel in my childhood, the wine was known as Tokay. It was heady and opulent, drunk by lords and explorers. As a server studying wine many years later, I encountered it again. This time a customer called it Tokaji As, and ordered a half bottle. The bottle was $1500 and the wine was served from a crystal spoon. Of course it isn’t all so expensive; I’ve had it several times since. But the sense of excitement and majesty never left. More recently I’ve discovered the dry wines made from this wonderful grape, Furmint.

Evolucio Furmint isn’t quite a varietal wine, as it is blended with 15% Muscat, another key player in Tokaji. The Muscat gives it a bit of floral character, while the Furmint provides the mineral backbone. It is surprisingly rich given the high acidity and moderate alcohol, and is equally welcome on the picnic table or the couch. Fried fish tacos, grilled chicken or roasted pork all shine next to it. It is one of my favorites to sip outside on our long summer evenings, crisp and refreshing against the humidity. Even in the winter I love this wine, as every sip I take transports me back to this time of year, with all the sounds and smells of nature. Get this bottle for only $11.99! On sale for the month of June for $10.79.