Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos, Royal Tokaji - 2018

Why dessert wines of this pedigree don't fly off the shelves is a mystery I will never understand. To me, Royal Tokaji in particular has always been one of the most amazing values in the store. I could wax on about the region's history, the grape varieties, the weird and amazing phenomenon of noble rot, or how this wine was a favorite of Catherine the Great, but all you really need to know is how outrageously, knee-buckling, swoon-inducingly delicious it is. From one of the best vintages I've had, this one’s full of ripe peaches, apricots, orange marmalade, and the unique honey-like notes from botrytis, all held aloft by a bright, juicy acidity. It's a wine that would elevate any cheese course, but is outstanding on its own. Just keep the fainting couch nearby.