Bencze - Aries "Dancing on the Flor" 2021
Bencze - Aries "Dancing on the Flor" 2021
A singular expression of old-vine Riesling from Badacsony, shaped by time, patience and the quiet influence of flor. Aromatically, it opens with layers of white peach, nectarine and citrus blossom, unfolding into jasmine, dried herbs and a fine volcanic minerality. What sets this vintage apart is its extraordinary élevage: 4.5 years in amphora under flor, building remarkable depth, texture and savoury complexity while preserving tension and precision. The palate is creamy yet electric, driven by a piercing acidity and a long, saline finish. Powerful, contemplative and deeply original, this is Riesling pushed into a completely different dimension.
Winemaker | István Bencze
Region | Badacsony, Hungary
Variety | Riesling
Viticulture | Biodynamic
Soil | Dense volcanic basalt with some tuff, sandstone, brown forest soil and clay
Altitude | 180 m
Age of the vines | planted in 1972
Bottles made | 1200 bottles
Vinification
Hand-harvested during the Aries phase of the lunar cycle in September, the grapes undergo a slow and gentle whole-bunch press before being transferred to amphora. Fermentation and maturation take place over 4.5 years under a veil of flor, a rare élevage that adds savoury complexity, texture and oxidative nuance while preserving freshness and structure. The wine is bottled unfined, unfiltered and without the addition of SO₂, capturing a pure and uncompromising expression of both terroir and time.
