{"title":"Hungary","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"310\" data-end=\"367\"\u003eHungary, a historic wine region in the heart of Europe\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"369\" data-end=\"693\"\u003e Hungary is one of the great historical wine regions of Europe, long overshadowed by the more publicized regions of Western Europe. Yet, the country has been cultivating vines for over a thousand years and today boasts nearly \u003cstrong data-start=\"606\" data-end=\"625\"\u003e65,000 hectares\u003c\/strong\u003e , spread across a mosaic of terroirs with very distinct identities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"695\" data-end=\"1023\"\u003e Located at the crossroads of continental and Balkan influences, Hungary enjoys a distinctly continental climate, with hot summers, cold winters, and temperature variations that contribute to the natural freshness of its wines. It's an ideal terroir for wines that are bold, vibrant, and deeply rooted in their soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1025\" data-end=\"1078\"\u003e A mosaic of terroirs and indigenous grape varieties\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1440\"\u003eThe richness of Hungarian vineyards lies first and foremost in the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1138\" data-end=\"1163\"\u003ediversity of their soils\u003c\/strong\u003e – volcanic, limestone, loess, red clay – but also in a heritage of \u003cstrong data-start=\"1246\" data-end=\"1277\"\u003eunique indigenous grape varieties\u003c\/strong\u003e , often found nowhere else. Furmint, Hárslevelű, Kékfrankos, Juhfark, and Kadarka shape a singular wine identity, far removed from international standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"1442\" data-end=\"1852\"\u003e For the past fifteen years or so, a new generation of winemakers has been reclaiming this heritage by cultivating the vines using organic or biodynamic methods, with a particular focus on natural fermentations and winemaking without additives. Hungary is now emerging as one of the most exciting playgrounds for lovers of natural wines in Central Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1854\" data-end=\"1889\"\u003e Tokaj, the volcano and precision\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"2194\"\u003eIt is impossible to talk about Hungary without starting with \u003cstrong data-start=\"1942\" data-end=\"1951\"\u003eTokaj\u003c\/strong\u003e , a legendary region listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the northeast of the country, it rests on complex volcanic soils mixing rhyolite, andesite and volcanic tuffs, giving the wines remarkable structure and tension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"2196\" data-end=\"2542\"\u003e The king of grapes here is \u003cstrong data-start=\"2221\" data-end=\"2232\"\u003eFurmint\u003c\/strong\u003e , capable of producing both exquisite dry whites and legendary sweet wines. Today, many winemakers are restoring the reputation of dry Tokaj, with wines that are straightforward, saline, and possess a striking mineral depth, far removed from the sugary clichés that have long defined the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2572\"\u003e Somló, the sacred mountain\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"2574\" data-end=\"2828\"\u003eFurther west, the tiny \u003cstrong data-start=\"2618\" data-end=\"2627\"\u003eSomló\u003c\/strong\u003e appellation stands out as one of the most radical terroirs in the country. This vineyard, covering only a few hundred hectares, rests on an ancient, isolated volcano, offering basaltic soils of rare intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"2830\" data-end=\"3135\"\u003e Here, \u003cstrong data-start=\"2838\" data-end=\"2849\"\u003eJuhfark\u003c\/strong\u003e , an indigenous white grape variety with an austere and vertical character, gives rise to powerful, taut, almost earthy wines. These are wines of patience, crafted for aging, often vinified without artifice, expressing a raw, mineral Hungary deeply rooted in its soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"3137\" data-end=\"3172\"\u003e Eger, between freshness and finesse\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"3174\" data-end=\"3456\"\u003eIn the north of the country, the \u003cstrong data-start=\"3203\" data-end=\"3211\"\u003eEger\u003c\/strong\u003e region is best known for its elegant red wines made from \u003cstrong data-start=\"3266\" data-end=\"3280\"\u003eKékfrankos\u003c\/strong\u003e (Blaufränkisch), often blended with other local grape varieties. The soils there alternate between limestone, marl, and volcanic influences, resulting in a beautiful aromatic complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"3458\" data-end=\"3743\"\u003e Eger reds are distinguished by their balance of fruit, spice, and freshness, often exhibiting more finesse than power. This region offers an ideal environment for winemaking with minimal intervention, resulting in wines that are easy to drink, precise, and profoundly enjoyable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"3745\" data-end=\"3775\"\u003e Villány, sunny Hungary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"3777\" data-end=\"4102\"\u003eIn the far south, near Croatia, \u003cstrong data-start=\"3816\" data-end=\"3827\"\u003eVillány\u003c\/strong\u003e embodies the sunniest side of the Hungarian vineyard. The climate there is warmer, almost Mediterranean, and the limestone and clay soils favor fuller-bodied reds, dominated by \u003cstrong data-start=\"4021\" data-end=\"4035\"\u003eKékfrankos\u003c\/strong\u003e , but also by international grape varieties revisited with finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"4104\" data-end=\"4315\"\u003e Although the region is historically associated with powerful wines, many committed winemakers are now exploring freer, more digestible expressions, favoring balance and the sincerity of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"4317\" data-end=\"4359\"\u003e A vibrant scene in full renaissance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4724\"\u003eHungary's wine industry is experiencing a \u003cstrong data-start=\"4405\" data-end=\"4430\"\u003etrue renaissance\u003c\/strong\u003e , driven by committed, inquisitive winemakers who deeply respect their terroir. Far removed from international standards, Hungarian wines offer a unique perspective on Central Europe: wines of soil, climate, and grape variety, often made without additives, and always imbued with a distinct identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"4726\" data-end=\"4833\"\u003e An unmissable destination for anyone looking for vibrant, authentic wines that are still largely undiscovered.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"riesling-2022-bencze","title":"Riesling 2022 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼‍🌾 White wine made by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e On the slopes overlooking Lake Balaton, where basalt and black stones retain the day's heat, Bencze's Riesling first seeks the contours of the land. The winemaking is as unadorned as possible, without artifice, to let the fruit and tension speak for themselves. The nose offers aromas of lemon, green apple, and damp chalk. On the palate, it is precise and precise, with a salinity that lingers on the palate and a lemony finish that clearly invites pairing with food. Pairing: grilled fish, tempura, seafood dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e 📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003eHungary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 🍇Grape variety: Riesling\u003cbr\u003e 📆Vintage: 2022\u003cbr\u003e Alcohol Content: 11%\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Allergens: Contains sulfites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56492435898743,"sku":"BENCZERIES22","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/48d5916b36f26688721e59e5099b09aa.png?v=1767944558"},{"product_id":"autochthon-rouge-2022-bencze","title":"Autochthon Rouge 2022 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼‍🌾 Red wine made by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e A blended red that doesn't strive for a \"black red,\" but rather for drinkability with substance: fruit, spice, and that sense of terroir that lingers on the palate without being heavy. Free-flowing winemaking, with measured extraction, to preserve fine tannins and vibrant juice. The nose opens with aromas of dark cherry, plum, and a touch of pepper. On the palate, it's juicy and supple, with a fresh structure that extends the finish and leaves a hint of minerality. Pairs well with charcuterie, grilled meats, and roasted eggplant.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e 📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003eHungary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 🍇Grape variety: Indigenous grape varieties of the Carpathians\u003cbr\u003e 📆Vintage: 2022\u003cbr\u003e Alcohol Content: 11%\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Allergens: Contains sulfites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56492436390263,"sku":"BENCZEAURGE22","price":35.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/7fde41a6c4e1872bb3e4dcf1424d2644.png?v=1767944566"},{"product_id":"autochthon-blanc-2022-bencze","title":"Autochthon Blanc 2022 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼‍🌾 White wine made by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Here, the idea isn't to \"recognize\" a grape variety, but to sense an origin: a blended white wine conceived as a landscape. Unadorned craftsmanship, preserved substance, and a wine that plays on nuance rather than showiness. The nose blends white fruits, delicate herbs, and a touch of zest. The palate is ample yet structured, with a light texture, vibrant freshness, and a saline finish that draws the glass back in. Pairing: roast poultry, mountain cheeses, baked vegetables.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e 📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003eHungary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 🍇Grape variety: Various Carpathian grape varieties\u003cbr\u003e 📆Vintage: 2022\u003cbr\u003e Alcohol Content: 11.5%\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Allergens: Contains sulfites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56492437930359,"sku":"BENCZEAUBLC22","price":32.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/e24dd24cdb9accc7d1ec759eb085d9d7.png?v=1767944571"},{"product_id":"aries-2021-bencze","title":"Aries 2021 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼🌾 White wine made by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Riesling completely in a league of its own, from old Templomdombi vines planted in the 1970s in volcanic basalt, tuff, sandstone, and clay soils. The 2021 spent nearly four and a half years in amphora under a veil of yeast, without fining, filtration, or added sulfur, which gives it an incredible depth without losing its tension. Notes of white peach, citrus, flowers, dried herbs, and a true volcanic salinity come through, with a creamy yet very lively palate. A Riesling that requires time to open up, more akin to a great meditation wine than a white to be drunk in a rush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/hongrie\"\u003eHungary\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e🍇Grape variety: Riesling\u003cbr\u003e📆Vintage: 2021\u003cbr\u003e% Alcohol content: 13%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllergens: contains sulfites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57510159516023,"sku":"BENCZEARI21","price":56.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/0c90c2157703cc5850e66bab5693c040.png?v=1791182186"},{"product_id":"atlas-2022-bencze","title":"Atlas 2022 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼🌾 Red wine produced by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Pinot Noir that doesn't quite fit the classic image we have of the grape variety. The grapes come from the upper part of the Rókalyuki vineyard, which is stonier and well-drained, with a mixture of clay, sand, sandstone, and basalt. In 2022, vinification was 70% whole-cluster, followed by 13 months on the lees in large foudres before being bottled without fining, filtration, or added sulfur. In the glass, you’ll find small red fruits, a subtle vegetal touch, pepper, and that volcanic salinity which provides immense length. It is light on its feet but far from simple, with real depth behind the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/hongrie\"\u003eHungary\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e🍇Grape variety: Pinot Noir\u003cbr\u003e📆Vintage: 2022\u003cbr\u003e% Alcohol content: 11%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllergens: contains sulfites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57510159548791,"sku":"BENCZEATL22","price":42.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/ba6dc7022de76115afc50dec44949e0f.png?v=1791182198"},{"product_id":"varvolgy-olaszrizling-2023-bencze","title":"Varvolgy Olaszrizling 2023 - Bencze","description":"\u003cp data-oe-version=\"1.2\"\u003e👨🏼🌾 White wine made by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/bencze\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBencze\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first vintage from this Várvölgy plot, planted with Olaszrizling — or Welschriesling — on volcanic soils mixing basalt, tuff, sandstone, and clay. A portion of the must undergoes a short skin macer ation before fermentation, which adds a little more texture without turning the wine into an orange wine. You'll find notes of ripe pear, quince, almond, white flowers, and a slightly iodized touch, with a lively palate, creamy on the lees, and slightly petillant upon opening. A very singular white, both gourmet and electric, which really benefits from some air in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍Region: \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/collections\/hongrie\"\u003eHungary\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e🍇Grape variety: Welschriesling\u003cbr\u003e📆Vintage: 2023\u003cbr\u003e% Alcohol content: 13%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllergens: contains sulphites\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bencze","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57510159581559,"sku":"BENCZEVAR23","price":31.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0818\/6947\/2019\/files\/bd196eafb74daf6b91df765ec37b7fb9.png?v=1791182204"}],"url":"https:\/\/mireehaute.com\/en-eu\/collections\/hongrie.oembed","provider":"Marée Haute","version":"1.0","type":"link"}