Guide to Hungarian Wine

Wine is a big deal in Hungary and the country enjoys a burgeoning reputation among grape lovers around the world.

Across the country, you’ll likely find a good selection of wines on restaurant menus. In summer, you might also be offered spritzers — wine and mineral water mixed together — a good way to quench your thirst without getting too drunk.

If you’re drinking a spritzer the wine itself matters less, but those who want to really taste the grapes should look for minőségi bor (quality wine) or különleges minőséű bor (premium quality wine) on the bottle.

When visiting a wine bar or a bottle shop, there are a few big names you should look out for. A great everyday white wine is Laposa Badacsonyi Olaszrizling, while Szepsy Tokaji Furmint is almost apple-ish in flavor. Ráspi Soproni Kékfrankos is another one worth checking for, and Szepsy Tokaji Aszú is good for those with a sweet tooth.

Even if you normally prefer beer, Hungary is a good place to try some local wine. Don’t go for the imported French or Italian bottles either; they’ll be more expensive and most likely not as good as the local stuff.