Going Austro-Hungarian with Virgin Wines

A Wachau Gruener and a dry Tokaji from Virgin Wines

Students of central European history will be especially pleased by this geopolitical combination from Virgin Wines; oenologists will find they highlight stylistic differences between these now neighbouring, once-joined, countries. 

Both are very well-made; the Austrian wine is linear and precise, whereas the Hungarian is fruitier and, although dry, shares the hedonistic flavour profile of sweet Tokaji.

Gruener Veltliner Wachau Selection (£13.99) made by the Wachau's excellent co-op, Domaene Wachau. Poised, elegant citrus and white stone fruits with hints of Gruener's signature celery and lentils; pure and fresh with a saline pebbly minerality, white flowers and a whiff of pepper. Improves with extensive aeration.

Good.

Drink as an aperitif or with light starters.

2015 Chateau Dereszla Tokaji Furmint Dry 2015 (£10.99) dried apricots, marmelade and beeswax-honeysuckle with freshness and a saline minerality, white pepper and sweet spices. Floral, eaxy and rich.

Good.

Drink with rich foods such as pâté.