Irsai Olivér

Irsai Olivér is a white grape variety predominantly grown in Hungary. It is a hybrid grape, created in 1930 by Pál Kocsis, a Hungarian viticulturist. The grape is a cross between two other varieties, Pozsonyi fehér and Csaba gyöngye.

History

The Irsai Olivér grape was first cultivated in the early 20th century, during a period of significant experimentation in viticulture. The grape was named after its creator, Pál Kocsis, whose middle name was Olivér. The "Irsai" part of the name is derived from the Hungarian word for "from Irsa", a village in Hungary where Kocsis was born.

Characteristics

Irsai Olivér is known for its intense aroma, often compared to that of Muscat grapes. The grape produces wines that are light in body and high in acidity. The wines typically have a pale straw color and are often used to produce semi-sweet or sweet wines.

Cultivation

While Irsai Olivér is most commonly grown in Hungary, it can also be found in other wine-producing regions, including Slovakia, Czech Republic, and Russia. The grape is typically harvested in late August or early September.

Wine Production

Irsai Olivér wines are often consumed young, as they do not typically benefit from aging. The wines are known for their floral and fruity aromas, with notes of peach, apricot, and lychee. They are often served chilled and can be paired with a variety of foods, including seafood, poultry, and spicy dishes.

See Also

• List of grape varieties
• Hungarian wine
• Viticulture