In the world of wine, Hungary awaits discovery as a hidden gem. The country boasts a long and proud winemaking history, with traditions that date back centuries. Hungarian wines are a testament to the country’s unique terroirs, grape varieties, and the passion of its winemakers. Here, we take you on a journey through 5 Hungarian wines that you absolutely must try to experience the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions this European gem has to offer.
Tokaji Aszú – Liquid Gold from the East
We begin our Hungarian wine adventure with Tokaji Aszú, often referred to as “the wine of kings and the king of wines.” This iconic wine hails from the Tokaj-Hegyalja region in northeastern Hungary. Tokaji Aszú gains its renown from its exceptional sweetness and intricate flavors.
Consequently, winemakers employ the Furmint grape, allowing it to remain on the vine, where noble rot develops, yielding intensely sweet and concentrated grapes. Harvesters meticulously hand-pick these grapes, creating a lusciously sweet nectar. The wine’s flavors of honey, apricot, and dried fruits, coupled with vibrant acidity, make it a true liquid gold experience.
Egri Bikavér – The Bull’s Blood of Eger
Egri Bikavér, or “Bull’s Blood of Eger,” is a classic Hungarian red wine from the Eger region, located in the north of the country. Its intriguing name is derived from a legend involving Hungarian soldiers who defended Eger against the Ottoman Empire, fortifying themselves with this wine.
Egri Bikavér is a red blend, typically made from the Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) grape as the base, along with other local and international varieties. Therefore, it exhibits a deep red color, with aromas of dark berries, spices, and a touch of oak. This wine’s robust and full-bodied character pairs wonderfully with hearty Hungarian dishes like goulash or roasted meats.
Szamorodni – A Unique Hungarian Specialty
Szamorodni is a distinctive and lesser-known Hungarian wine from the Tokaj region. What sets it apart is its versatility – it can be either sweet or dry, and sometimes even both. The name “Szamorodni” means “as it comes” in Polish, indicating that the grapes are harvested as they naturally ripen.
The grape varieties used for Szamorodni are Furmint and Hárslevelű, which contribute to its unique flavor profile. The sweet version has notes of honey, dried fruits, and nuts. Whilst the dry version showcases a crisp acidity and a nutty character. Thus, this wine is a testament to the diversity and innovation in Hungarian winemaking.
Kadarka – The Soul of Szekszárd
In addition, moving south to the Szekszárd wine region, we find Kadarka, a grape variety that encapsulates the soul of this area. Hence, Kadarka is a native Hungarian grape, known for its elegant and spicy character. Hence, its thin skins and vibrant acidity create wines with a beautiful balance.
Kadarka wines typically exhibit red fruit aromas, such as raspberries and sour cherries, coupled with a hint of black pepper. Moreover, the wine’s light to medium body and smooth texture make it an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and refreshing experience.
Bull’s Blood from Villány – A Hungarian Marvel
Furthermore, our journey concludes in the southernmost wine region of Hungary, Villány, known for producing some of the country’s finest red wines. One of its standout wines is Bull’s Blood from Villány (Villányi Bikavér). This wine is made from a blend of grape varieties, often including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Kékfrankos.
Bull’s Blood from Villány is characterized by its smooth and elegant nature. It features dark fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and a touch of oak from barrel aging. Moreover, the wine is a true Hungarian marvel and a testament to the international success of Hungarian winemaking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring Hungarian wines is like taking a journey through centuries of tradition and innovation. The country’s diverse wine regions offer a wide range of flavors and styles, ensuring that there’s something for every palate. From the sweet nectar of Tokaji Aszú to the bold reds of Egri Bikavér and Bull’s Blood from Villány, each wine tells a unique story of Hungarian winemaking heritage.
