Hungarian Wines
Hungary’s quality wine reputation is arguably built on the esteemed dessert wines of Tokaj. These rich and mellifluous wines, which are referred to as Tokaji, are the product of botrytis cinerea, or noble rot, a beneficial mold that concentrates the natural sugar levels in grapes. The two principle grapes of the Tokaj region are Furmint and Hárslevelü, with Sárga Muskotály (Muscat Blanc á Petite Grains), Zéta, Kabar and Kövérszolo also authorized, but generally used in smaller proportions. While Tokaj is considered to be Hungary’s most famous wine region, 21 other regions of production exist. These regions are divided among three major zones of production: North Hungary, Transdanubia and the Southern Great Plain. For more information about the wines of Hungary, visit our Wine Reviews.
Craftsman 2004 Királyleányka (Neszmély)
- $9
With Muscat-like aromas of honeysuckle, lemon and white fruit, this indigenous Hungarian white (pronounced Kee-rye-lay-ohn-kha) offers airy flavors of lemon candy and honeysuckle. Just right for sipping on a summer afternoon. Imported by MHW, Ltd.
— M.D.
(6/1/2006)
Craftsman 2004 Gewürztraminer (Neszmély)
- $9
This wine shows the peppery side of Gewürz, pairing it with papaya and lychee in the mouth. Its medium-full body along with its spicy pepper undertones would make this the perfect pair to the traditional Hungarian dish: chicken in paprika sauce. Imported by MHW, Ltd.
— M.D.
(6/1/2006)
Dunavar 2004 Connoisseur Collection Pinot Gris (Felso-Magyarország)
- Best Buy
- $7
Shows some tell-tale pear in the nose, with generic white fruits and a dash of oak on the palate. A little plump in the mouth, but with matching acidity and a bit of spice, this Pinot could be from anywhere. Imported by Victoire Imports.
— M.D.
(6/1/2006)
Bock 2003 Special Reserve Kekfrankos (Villány)
- $15
This is a good, friendly Hungarian red at a comfortable price. Cinnamon and anise on the nose unfold into medium-bodied flavors of black pepper and red berry on the palate, sucessfully balancing the fruit and spice elements of the wine. The finish is slightly bitter and short but overall, the wine has a supple, flavorful quality that recommends it.
— S.K.
(5/1/2008)
Malatinszky 2003 Kúria Unfiltered Cabernet Franc (Villány)
- $75
An elegant nose of pepper and deeper berry/mocha aromas gives the nose of this wine a more mysterious character than the typical Cab Franc, adding to its appeal. On the palate, it’s a medium-bodied, slightly spicy red with a touch of bitter tobacco on the finish. Friendly and flavorful.
— S.K.
(5/1/2008)
Craftsman 2006 Királyleányka (Neszmély)
- Online Exclusive
- $9
A delicate floral nose leads with this native Hungarian variety, followed by flavors which are clean, crisp and citric--perhaps a touch limey for some tastes. Overall, the wine is balanced and the finish dry. Affordable and food-friendly. Imported by MHW Ltd.
— S.K.
(8/1/2007)
Craftsman 2006 Cserszegi Fűszeres (Neszmély)
- Online Exclusive
- $9
Another good and affordable white from Hungary. Pretty floral and flirty aromas and a bright, tropical fruit flavor profile make this wine accessible and good for stand-alone sipping or pairing with spicy cuisine. Imported by MHW Ltd.
— S.K.
(8/1/2007)
Craftsman 2006 Hárslevelü (Neszmély)
- Online Exclusive
- $9
Affordable and fun, this wine has assertive flavors of grapefruit and luscious tropical fruit. It's a touch sweet but the citrus cuts any sap. Overall, a yummy wine with mass appeal. Imported by MHW Ltd.
— S.K.
(8/1/2007)
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