« There is no such thing as a Hungarian village without a cellar. » This sums up the wine culture in Hungary, steeped in history since Antiquity and the conquest of the southern bank of the Danube by the Romans.
One of the hallmarks of Hungarian cuisine is the massive use of paprika, either strong (csipős) or sweet (eded). In general, Hungarians eat a lot of meat, especially pork and chicken, and relatively few vegetables. The typical Hungarian meal consists of a soup, a main course and occasionally a dessert.
Recognized for its great sweet white wines from the Tokaj region, During our tasting tour Hungary, you will have the opportunity to find ou that Hungary has a vineyard of 85,000 hectares producing, depending on the vintage, up to 3 million hectoliters of wine distributed up to 70% white and 30% red.Several regions in Hungary are known for their distinctive wines, which continue to grow in international stature. But you don’t need to visit the four corners of Hungary to sample this, thanks to the many wine bars all around Budapest.
Budapest (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Budapest. A city of history with many influences, Roman, Mongolian, Ottoman, then Austrian, the capital of Hungary has remained in its infancy, as evidenced by its countless buildings from past centuries still awaiting renovation. From the banks of Danube- listed as a World Heritage Site – to the largest synagogue in Europe, including the Paliament, the St.Stephen Basilica , the alleys of the Jewish Quarter, the buildings built by the Eiffel Company, the bridges, the Art Nouveau buildings, Buda Castle , the monuments on Andrassy Avenue, the architectural heritage will never cease to amaze you.
While Italy and France continue to dominate the European market, Hungary’s emerging wine industry is starting to get noticed. The often-overlooked history of wine in Hungary is as fascinating as the country itself. With ancient tribes, the rule of the Ottoman Empire and of course Roman influences all playing an integral part in the development of Hungarian wine.
While we may have already discussed outside influences to Hungary’s wine industry, some things are (quite literally) homegrown. The grapes native to Eger have been growing naturally for millions of years, largely down to its perfect terrain. The soil includes a combination of limestone and volcanic rock. Which, along with the dry conditions of the region, helps to grow grapes that provide an ideal acidity with a distinct aroma.
Then there is Tokaj, a wine region that has certainly put Hungary’s emerging wine industry on the global map. The clay soil is combined with a subsoil high in iron and limestone. The grapes often used being the two varieties of Furmint and Hárslevelű. Tokaj is where it all began, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised as the oldest classified wine region in the world. Expect to discover sweet white wines along with their drier companions.
Arrival to Budapest. Airport. Transfer to the hotel. In the evening: wine dinner in
Domus Vinorum (or similar). Overnight in a 4-star hotel, Budapest.
After breakfast get acquainted with Budapest, the beautiful Hungarian capital
during a sightseeing tour. The guests will see the most famous sights of the city
(e.g. Heroes Square – with statues of the historical Hungarian kings, City Park
with Europe’s largest thermal spa, Andrássy Avenue, Opera House, St Steven’s
Cathedral, Parliament, Chain Bridge, Castle District, Matthias Church,
Fishermen’s Bastion), the most interesting stories of the locals, and general
information about history, the city, and life in Hungary. Then continue to Etyek to
have lunch, and then taste the excellent local wines in an intimate cellar. Dinner
cruise, while you can enjoy a delicious dinner and the illuminated Budapest.
Overnight in the hotel.
In the morning departure to Hollókő. Members of the Hollókő Women´s Choir
dressed in their regional costumes welcome the visitors with brandy (pálinka)
and cottage cheese pie or scones (pogácsa) at the barnyard at the entrance of
the Old Village. While enjoying the home-made culinary delights, you´ll witness
an unforgettable performance as the women revive the atmosphere of the ageold houses of weaving. The fast-spinning spools accompanied by the women´s
singing, the entertaining jests and merriments and the sounds of popping corns
are simply unforgettable. The women will also show their beautiful traditional
garments, (2 of the guests – 1 lady and 1 gentleman – will be dressed up in
traditional clothes) then the spinning house closes with a folk dance in which the
visitors are also welcomed to take part. After the program home hosted lunch at
local families. After lunch continue to Tokaj – wine tasting Birthplace of Tokaji
Aszú, this legendary wine region in north-eastern Hungary is named after the
town of Tokaj, its former commercial centre. It is a relatively small region of
around 5,500 hectares of vineyards which encompasses 27 towns and villages. It
was declared one of the first appellations in the world (in 1737!) and has been
famous for its Tokaji Aszú, a noble sweet wine, for centuries. Its winemaking
culture and traditions are honoured by its inclusion in the UNESCO World
Heritage since 2002.
After the wine tasting in Tokaj, continue to Eger. Eger is a small jewellery box.
The castle of Eger, many museums, churches, Turkish memorial constructions are
waiting for you. The name of Eger is closely connected to wine. The wine region
of Eger is well known. There is an opportunity to get acquainted with the wide
variety of the wine region’s offer from the light wines for weekdays to the limited
vintages and unique items. Dinner in a local restaurant in Eger (3-course menu
with 3 x 0,1 l lunch). Overnight in a 4-star hotel in Eger.
Take part in a Wine & go tour in the morning! Meet Eger’s stories, gossips with
a glass of wine in your hand. The program include a professional English
speaking guide, 4 wines and snacks. Lunch in a local restaurant in Eger (3-course
menu without drinks). Free time in Eger in the afternoon. Dinner and wine tasting
in Eger in a local restaurant (gourmet menu + taste of 5 types of wine)
Departure from Eger to Budapest Airport.
