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HUNGARY
59
Dobogó
WINERY OVERVIEW
The collapse of Communism in 1989 heralded a new era, not only for Hungary but also for the
wines of Tokaj. During the last 10 years, many acres of land on this volcanic range of hills in the
northeastern corner of Hungary have been returned to private ownership. As a result, Tokaji
wines are enjoying a renaissance and can once again take their place among the great wines
of the world.
New winemaking companies have been established, including the Dobogó Vineyards and
Cellars. While many vineyards are now in foreign hands, Dobogó belongs to Izabella Zwack,
the youngest member of the Zwack family, better known in Hungary for their distillery on the
banks of the Danube. Dobogó Vineyards and Cellars Ltd. was purchased in 1995 with the aim
of restoring the wines of Tokaj to their original splendor. Dobogó literally means “clippity-
clop,” referring to the sound of the horse-drawn carts on cobblestones as they return from
the vineyards.
LOCATION OF VINEYARD
The vineyards that produce Tokaji Aszú at Dobogó are located on the volcanic soils of
the first-growth classified vineyards at Mák and Tállya. At Dobogó, dedication combines
with modern technology to produce a true Hungarian Tokaji Aszú, faithful to centuries-old
traditions. Dobogó is the only winery that produces only six-puttonyos Tokaji Aszú, the most
prestigious elixir of them all.
WINEMAKING PHILOSOPHY
Making Tokaji wines starts with Aszú (dried) berries, which are harvested and reserved in the
cellar, while the remaining grapes are fermented for the base wine. For six puttonyos, the
wine must reach a total residual sugar of 150g/L, but in some vintages it can far exceed that.
In letting the conditions of each particular vintage show, the classic, noble traditions of the
region are enhanced.
Winemaking at Dobogó is directed by Attila Domokos, a native of the region who has
officially joined the company as a partner, ensuring that the collaboration with Izabella
and the Zwack family will continue into future vintages with continually improving quality
and recognition.
Owned by:
Izabella Zwack
Winemaker:
Attila Domokos
Founded in:
1995
Region:
Tokaj
Country:
Hungary
Wine:
Dobogó, Tokaji Aszú 6 Puttonyos
Dobogó, Tokaji Furmint
Dobogó, Mylitta