Upper Hungary

Upper Hungary’s wines showcase bold, spicy reds with earthy undertones and crisp, mineral-rich whites. Known for Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood)—a blend with flavors of dark berries, pepper, and smoke—this is one of Hungary’s few regions where red wines dominate. The volcanic soils and the protection of the Mátra and Bükk Mountains create wines of remarkable depth and character.

Upper Hungary Terroir

Upper Hungary’s mountainous terroir, with vineyards at altitudes of 200-500 meters (650-1650 feet), brings freshness and structure to its wines. The volcanic soils, including rhyolite tuff and loess, add a signature mineral complexity, ideal for reds like Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) and crisp whites. The protective Mátra and Bükk Mountains create a climate that balances sunny days and cool nights, resulting in wines with bright acidity, spice, and depth.

Wine Regions of Upper Hungary

Eger

Famed for its Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), Eger produces complex, spicy red Kékfrankos dominant blends with Kadarka. Look out for crisp whites like Leányka and Olaszrizling too.

Mátra

The largest region in Upper Hungary, Mátra is known for its volcanic soils and cool climate, and specializes in vibrant, mineral-driven whites like Pinot Gris, Muscat, and Müller-Thurgau along with some earthy reds.

Bükk

The lesser-known and smallest region in Upper Hungary, situated next to Tokaj, Bükk focuses on fresh white wines made from Leányka, but also has a renewed focus on natural wines.

Upper Hungary Facts

• 30,000 acres (12,000 ha) of vineyards are found throughout Upper Hungary
• Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) is a bold red blend made from mostly Kékfrankos and Kadarka.
• Continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and high diurnal shifts
• Rich history, with Eger as one of Hungary’s oldest wine regions
• It’s one of only 2 regions in Hungary that produces more red than white wine