Wines
You might know about Hungary’s famous Tokaji wine, but do you know the grape behind it? It’s Furmint, one of the many fascinating native varieties that make Hungary such an exciting wine region.
While Tokaji may steal the spotlight, Hungary also produces a multitude of aromatic dry whites, age-worthy whites, and distinctive reds. In fact, 70% of the country’s production is focused on white grapes like Furmint and Cserszegi Fűszeres, while reds like Kadarka and Kékfrankos showcase Hungary's expertise in crafting elegant and bold wines.
Here are six Hungarian grape varieties that embody the country’s rich winemaking tradition.
Furmint
Pronunciation “Foor-mint”
Intro
Furmint is the backbone of Hungary’s world-famous Tokaji wines and is Hungary’s third most planted grape variety. This versatile, high acid, white grape produces wines that range from bone dry and mineral-driven to lusciously sweet.
Kékfrankos
Pronunciation: “cake-frank-osh”
Intro
Kékfrankos, also known as Blaufränkisch in Austria, or Lemberger in Germany, is the most planted red grape variety in Hungary. It produces wines that are medium- to full-bodied with high acidity and firm tannins, making it a cornerstone of Hungarian red wines - particularly Bull’s Blood!
Kadarka
Pronunciation: “KAH-dahr-kah”
Intro
Kadarka is an ancient red grape variety with deep roots in Hungary, though its exact origin is unknown. Known for its light body and distinctive spiciness (a bit like Pinot Noir!), Kadarka was once the most widely planted grape in the country but has since become more of a niche variety.
Cserszegi Fűszeres
Pronunciation: “Chair-seggy Foo-seh-resh”
Intro
Cserszegi Fűszeres is an aromatic white grape variety with pink skins, developed in the 1960s by crossing Irsai Olivér (see below) with Gewürztraminer. It is celebrated for its unique, spicy aromatics and refreshing acidity. It is Hungary’s most planted white grape.
Olaszrizling
Pronunciation: “Oh-lahss reez-ling”
Intro
Olaszrizling means Italian Riesling, but this grape is neither Italian nor Riesling! Also known as Welschriesling in Austria and Germany, it is Hungary’s fourth most planted grape variety and is made in a wide range of styles.
Irsai Olivér
Pronunciation: “Ear-shy Oh-lee-vair”
Introduction
Irsai Olivér, Hungary’s fifth most planted variety, is a highly aromatic white grape developed in the early 20th century. Often enjoyed in its youth, it is beloved for its perfumed, floral characteristics and is very similar to Muscat.
Hungary Wine Facts
- Kékfrankos is the most planted grape variety.
- Cserszegi Fűszeres is the most planted white grape variety.
- There are 144,000 vineyard acres (58,249 hectares) in Hungary.
- Hungary is the 8th largest vineyard area in Europe.
- There are more than 220 different varieties planted in Hungary.
- 70% of Hungary’s grapes are white and 30% are red.
- Hungary has many native grape varieties that are planted nowhere else in the world. Juhfark is one of many examples.