The best-known wines in Hungary are the white dessert wine Tokaji and the red wine Bull's Blood of Eger. Hungarians are proud of the wine they produce, and the country is divided into 22 wine regions.

 

People who have never tried a Hungarian wine are almost never disappointed when they do. I am one of those people.

 

While abroad, I learned winemaking is hard work. On one outing, I enjoyed a traditional Hungarian meal with a family who happens to make their own delicious wines.

 

The ambiance of the meal was relaxing and wonderful. There was a plate of assorted cheeses, meats and breads ready for me as I sat down for the meal.

 

Once I started learning about the different types of wine and the process of winemaking, it was clear it’s important in Hungary. It is also a difficult process, which I didn’t know.

 

Hungarian winemakers use all sorts of grape varieties to make their wines. The combination of grape variety, microclimates and soil is the Budapest trifecta.

 

The Hungarian Wine Society had all kinds of information, including the Top 10 Hungarian grapes. The Top 10 grapes are as follows:

 

1.Furmint

 

2. Kekfrankos

 

3. Kadarka

 

4. Harslevelu

 

5. Olaszrizling

 

6. Portugieser

 

7. Irsai oliver

 

8. Keknyelu

 

9. Muscat

 

10. Cabernet franc

 

There are also other types of grapes that appear regularly in Hungarian wine offerings. These grapes include riesling, zweigelt, szurkebarat, tramini and juhfark.

 

The two bottles I purchased ended up being only 3,000 forints, which equates to about $13. I couldn’t pass up that deal.

 

One bottle was a one-of-a-kind wine called Végzet, which translates to destiny. It was made by my hosts’ father and has qualities similar to chardonnay. It has a smooth taste and enticing aroma.

 

The other type of wine, Gránátalmás, was a little sweeter and could be compared to a fruity sangria or moscato. This one was my favorite.

 

The next time the topic of wine comes up in conversation, think about the different families who work hard for friends, family and customers so they can enjoy a nice glass of wine. My time in Hungary let me experience the wonderful outcome of elegant winemaking.