History
Juhfark is an ancient Hungarian white grape variety, with its name meaning 'sheep's tail' in Hungarian, referring to the elongated, cylindrical shape of its grape clusters. It is primarily grown in the Somló wine region, located in northwest Hungary, where the volcanic soils impart a distinctive minerality to the wines. Historically, wines made from Juhfark were believed to have medicinal properties and were associated with promoting the conception of male heirs, earning it the nickname 'wedding night wine'.
Appearance
Elongated, cylindrical clusters of pale green grapes, resembling a sheep's tail.
Growing Traits
Juhfark is a high-yielding variety that thrives in volcanic soils, particularly in the Somló region. It is known for its high acidity and ability to reflect the terroir, producing wines with pronounced minerality. The grape is susceptible to diseases like mildew, requiring careful vineyard management.
Medium-bodied with a firm structure, offering a balance between fruitiness and pronounced minerality. Typically dry, emphasizing its crisp and refreshing character. Negligible tannins, as it is a white wine variety, resulting in a smooth and clean finish. High acidity, contributing to its freshness and enhancing its aging potential. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging between 12% and 13%, providing a balanced and approachable character.
Juhfark wines are characterized by their high acidity and pronounced minerality, often exhibiting flavors of green apple, citrus, and subtle herbal notes. With age, they can develop additional complexity, including floral and honeyed aromas. The volcanic soils of the Somló region impart a distinctive smoky and stony character to the wines, making them unique and terroir-expressive.
Juhfark's high acidity and mineral-driven profile make it an excellent companion for rich and fatty dishes. It pairs well with traditional Hungarian cuisine, such as hearty meat dishes, creamy soups, and dishes featuring sour cream. Its crispness also complements seafood, poultry, and spicy Asian cuisine. Additionally, Juhfark wines with some residual sugar can pair nicely with offal and liver dishes.
Hungary
SomlóBalaton HighlandsEtyek-BudaPécs