Hungary, located in central Europe, has earned its reputation in the wine world primarily through a few notable wine styles. However, it has been a diverse wine-producing nation for centuries. The history of Hungarian wine culture dates back to Roman times and has endured various political, religious, and economic challenges. These include the Islamic rule during the 16th century, when alcohol was prohibited, and the phylloxera epidemic of the late 1800s.
Hungary’s modern wine regions are spread throughout the country. In total, Hungary has 22 official wine regions, each characterized by its unique blend of culture, history, terroir, and winemaking style. For instance, the quantity-driven vineyards in the southern plains are quite different from the lakeside vineyards in the west and the foothills in the north-east.
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The eastern side of Hungary is bordered by the Carpathian Mountains, which have a significant impact on the local climate by shielding the region from cold winds that could otherwise sweep in from Poland and western Ukraine. The continental climate is further moderated by Lake Balaton and Lake Neusiedl, resulting in a longer and more temperate growing season.
The most important wine grapes currently cultivated in Hungary’s vineyards consist of a blend of traditional regional varieties and internationally recognized varieties of French origin, which are more familiar and easier to market. The traditional Hungarian white wine varieties include Furmint and Hárslevelű (the white grapes used in Tokaj), as well as Olaszrizling, Leányka, and Kéknyelűkékfra. Their red counterparts include Kadarka, Blaufrankisch (known here as Nagyburgundy and Kékfrankos), Zweigelt, Blauer Portugieser (formerly Kékoportó), and Cirfandli (Zierfandler).
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3 Hungarian Wines You Must Try
Tokaji Aszú
Tokaj, Hungary’s oldest wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is situated in the northeastern part of the country. It is renowned for producing some of the best wines in the world, including Tokaji Aszú, a sweet golden white wine.
This world-renowned wine offers flavors reminiscent of candied apricots and tangerines, along with hints of cloves and cinnamon. It has a subtle sweetness that falls between nectar and honey. Louis XIV famously described it as “the king of wines and the wine of kings.”
The Bodrog and Tisza rivers in this region create a unique microclimate that is ideal for growing Furmint grapes. With high humidity and abundant sunshine, this area produces exceptional grapes that are impacted by noble rot. These grapes are hand-picked and then crushed into a paste.
Egri Bikaver
Egri Bikavér is the flagship wine of the Eger region and is the most famous full-bodied red wine in Hungary. The name “Egri Bikavér” translates to “bull’s blood,” which is fitting given the wine’s powerful character. This rich red blend is known for its spice and tannin content. Tannins contribute bitterness and astringency, adding complexity and creating an earthy flavor profile. You might also notice hints of sour cherries in the taste. The grapes that make up this robust wine include Kadarka, Kékfrankos (Blue Franc), Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Kékfrankos is a mandatory component and must constitute the highest percentage in the blend.
Juhfark
You’ll find this unique, smoky white wine in the Balaton wine region, which is situated near Lake Balaton. The sub-region of Nagy-Somló is quite small but is known for producing some of Hungary’s most intriguing wines. Juhfark is a type of grape from the species Vitis vinifera, and its name translates to “sheep’s tail.” This name comes from the cylindrical shape of the grape clusters.
Juhfark is cultivated in an area of Hungary that originates from an extinct volcanic butte, located approximately 90 miles west of Budapest. The topsoil in this region is rich in minerals and consists of loess, sand, and clay, with bedrock made up of black basalt, which is a remnant of volcanic lava.