Hungary

Question 1

In the northeastern corner of Hungary, at the confluence of the?

Answer 1

Tisza and Bodrog Rivers, producers in the Tokaj region (formerly Tokaj-Hegyalja, or the Tokaj “foothills”) have long been crafting some of Europe’s most exemplary and longest-lived dessert wines

Question 2

Tokaj’s classification dates back to?

Answer 2

1730, with a final legal recognition in 1772

Question 3

Aszú appears in works published as early as?

Answer 3

1571, and Szepsi Laczkó Máté definitively produced botrytis-affected aszú wine by the mid-17th century

Question 4

Name some top producers for Tokaji

Answer 4

Royal Tokaji Company, Vega Sicilia’s Tokaj Oremus, Disznókõ, and Királyudvar, Istvan Szepsy, Hetszolo

Question 5

The Tokaj region, sheltered by the?

Answer 5

Carpathian Mountains

Question 6

Name the grape varieties of Tokaj

Answer 6

The two principal grapes of the region are Furmint and Hárslevelű; Sárgamuskotály (Muscat Blanc à Petite Grains), Zéta (Oremus), Kabar and Kövérszőlő are authorized but generally used in small quantities

Question 6

Soils are predominantly ?

Answer 6

volcanic loess and clay, and many of the better vineyards occupy south-facing slopes

Question 7

Traditionally, the aszú grapes are handpicked individually and gathered in containers called puttony—puttonyos is an adjective rather than the plural form—which hold roughly?

Answer 7

25kg

Question 8

gönc a Hungarian oak cask of approximately?

Answer 8

136 L

Question 9

Tokaj Aszú was labeled with 3-6 puttonyos to indicate sweetness—until major revisions eliminated these categories in time for the ?

Answer 9

2013 harvest

Question 10

Modern Tokaj Aszú ageing requierements and sweetness?

Answer 10

it ages for at least 3 years prior to release (with a minimum 18 months in barrel) and must contain at least 120 g/l of residual sugar and achieve an actual alcohol content of at least 9%

Question 11

Esszencia alc and sweetness?

Answer 11

4-6% alc and can reach 450g/l

Question 12

What is Tokaji Szamorodni?

Answer 12

(“as it comes”) is produced from a mixture of aszú and non-aszú grapes and is often oxidative in style as it is matured in cask for a minimum of six months, sometimes under a film-forming yeast similar to flor. Szamorodni wines may be édes (sweet min 45g/l) or száras (dry)
min alc 12%

Question 13

Which producer committed to elevating the stature of dry wines in the region?

Answer 13

The talented Hungarian winemaker István Szepsy, a key figure in the establishment of Hugh Johnson’s Royal Tokaji Company and Királyudvar, is a founding member of the Circle of Mád, a small contingent of producers committed to elevating the stature of dry wines in the region.

Question 14

With the EU’s recent reforms, this number of regions qualifying for PDO status has increased to 31, with 6 additional PGI areas. These are divided among three major geographical zones of production:

Answer 14

the Northern Massif, the western region of Transdanubia, and the southern Great Plain

Question 15

Name the wine regions of Hungary

Answer 15

Tokaj wine region (northeast)
Upper Hungary wine region (north)
Upper Pannon wine region (north)
Balaton wine region (west)
Danube wine region (central)
Pannon wine region (south)

Question 16

Egri Bikavér is made of?

Answer 16

Historically dominated by Kadarka—an indigenous, low-tannin, light-bodied and not particularly sanguine grape—modern Egri Bikavér is a blend of at least four varieties, incorporating Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), and other Hungarian and international grapes. Only Eger and Szekszárd in Transdanubia are permitted to use the term “Bikavér” on labels. (In Szekszárd, Bikavér also requires four varieties.)
Egri Bikavér is a Kékfankos-based blend characterised by notes of spice and fruit
Classic wines represent a light, everyday style and are very food-friendly. They are appreciated throughout the year. Superior and Grand Superior wines are mouth-filling and full-bodied with greater minerality and new oak influence

Question 17

Mátra (western part of Upper Hungary) is mostly famous for?

Answer 17

second largest PDO
Situated close to the border with Slovakia, it is the westernmost viticultural district in a group of three with Bukk and Eger.
vineyards dotting the lower slopes of the Mátra mountain range, part of the North Hungarian Mountains. The region is known for its aromatic whites and, in smaller volumes, well structured red wines
Müller-Thurgau (Rizlingszilváni in Hungarian), Pinot Gris (Szürkebarát), Muscat Ottonel (Ottonel Muskotály) and Olaszrizling are the most widely planted white varieties.
The most widely planted black varieties are Kékfrankos, Kadarka, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zweigelt and Cabernet Franc

(The best wines are produced from Kékfrankos, but some outstanding wines are also made from Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc)

Question 18

Szekszárd is famous for?

Answer 18

Produces red, white and rose but it is mostly famous for its dark red coloured reds mainly from Kadarka
Szekszárd Bikaver is produced from a min of four grapes 50% Kadarka and Kekfrankos but no more than 5% and 45% respectively and 10% of other 13 varieties
Szekszárd Premium Bikaver needs an additional year in the bottle and a min of 35% Kekfrankos, 5% Kadarka and 10% Syrah

Question 19

Somló and Nagy-Somló lies to the northwest, on the slopes of the extinct volcano. White wines dominate production in these three areas; grapes include ?

Answer 19

Furmint, Juhfark, Olaszrizling (Welschriesling), and a number of international varieties
Full bodied, barrel fermented and oxidative, high acidic and mineral wines
Chardonnay also and a small amount of reds

Question 20

On the northern border close to Austria, Sopron is mostly famous for?

Answer 20

It focuses mainly on red wine production, with vineyards planted mostly with local star Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) the Bordeaux wine grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and Burgundy’s Pinot Noir.
a little white from Zold Veltelini (Gruner), Zenit and Irsai Oliver Chardonnay
Sopron is most westerly wine region of northern Transdanubia

Question 21

Finally, just south along the Croatian border is Villány, Hungary’s hottest region, which produces good-quality wines from?

Answer 21

Bordeaux varieties, Kékfrankos, and Kékoportó (Blauer Portugieser)

Question 22

Aszu 3 puttonyos
Aszu 4 puttonyos
Aszu 5 puttonyos
Aszu 6 puttonyos
Aszuesszencia
Naturesszencia

Answer 22

120g/l
120g/l
120g/l
150g/l
180g/l (7-8 puttonyos)
450g/l

Question 23

Badascony PDO produces?

Answer 23

Olaszriesling (Italian Riesling) mostly planted
Szürkebarát is thought to be a version of Pinot Gris, which in popular legend was brought to Hungary by French monks in the 14th Century, hence its name which translates as Grey Monk. Wines made from this variety in Badacsony tend to be rich and oily, especially when the fruit is grown on warmer sites., Chardonnay and the local Keknyelu
mostly dry and late harvested whites
Badacsony is a tiny, traditional Hungarian wine region on the northern shore of the southern end of Lake Balaton, central Europe’s largest lake

Question 24

Tokaj wine region topography, soils, grapes and styles?

Answer 24

The world’s first closed wine region was established in Tokaj-Hegyalja and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 Its natural borders are formed by Sátor Hill, Kopasz Hill, the Tisza and Bodrog rivers the local climate that promotes botrytisation, which is thanks to the protection of the Zemplén Mountains and the wetlands formed by its rivers The vineyards are located on extremely varied volcanic rock at an altitude of about 100-300 metres above sea level The diverse volcanic activity that began 15 million years and ended 9 million years ago in the volcanic ring of the Tokaj-Prešov Mountains has created many different types of rocks and format Famous villages include Tokaj, Mad, Tarcal and Tolcsva The grape varieties permitted in the demarcated wine region are Furmint (3,573 hectares), Hárslevelű (1,068 hectares), Sárgamuskotály (546 hectares) and Zéta (Oremus). Small amounts of indigenous Kövérszőlő have reappeared in its vineyards, as well as some Kabar

Question 25

Name the wine districts of Upper Hungary wine region

Answer 25

Bükk Matra Eger

Question 26

Eger wine district (Upper Hungary) is mostly famous for?

Answer 26

It is located in northern Hungary, on the southern slopes of the Bükk Mountains The Eger climate is one of the coolest in Hungary The wine district produces both white and red wine, 40-45% of which is white, 55-60% of which is red. Olaszrizling, Leányka, Muscat Ottonel (Ottonel Muskotály), Kadarka, Kékoportó (Portugieser) and Medoc Noir (Menoire) The grapes that go into the robust Bikavér blend are Kadarka and Kekfrankos (typically the majority components), Zweigelt, Blauburger, Kekmedoc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir.

Question 27

Bukk wine district (Upper Hungary) is mostly famous for?

Answer 27

The Bükk wine region has been in the shadow of Eger in the 20th and 21st centuries, i.e. since the phylloxera disaster. Today, the Bükk wine district is predominantly a white wine region Wines, both red and white, are characterised by lively acidity and light yet firm body The current recommended white varieties are Leányka, Chardonnay, Cserszegi Fűszeres and Olaszrizling, while Kékfrankos, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Zweigelt make up the black varieties. The region’s most famous wine for many years was Tibolddaróc Olaszrizling famous sparkling wine producing region in the 19th and 20th centuries, making wines predominantly from Olaszrizling and Furmint

Question 28

Name the 2 most important wine districts of Balaton wine region in Transdanubia

Answer 28

Nagy-Somlo (northwestern part) Badascony (central)

Question 29

Badascony wine district overview?

Answer 29

Badacsony is a historic and geographically unique wine district on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, known for its volcanic basalt hills and powerful, characterful white wines. While tourism supports the area economically, it can challenge the traditional rhythm of viticulture. 2. Terroir: The region’s volcanic soils (especially basalt and basaltic debris) impart acidity, minerality, and richness to the wines. The south-facing slopes and Lake Balaton’s moderating effect create a unique microclimate, resembling sub-Mediterranean conditions at times. 3. Grape Varieties & Wine Styles: Primarily a white wine region, with Olaszrizling being dominant. Other key varieties include: Kéknyelű – signature, rare, elegant acidity, ageworthy Pinot Gris (Szürkebarát) – traditional and aromatic Budai Zöld, Rajnai Rizling, and some Furmint Red grapes like Pinot Noir and Kékfrankos play a minor role Wines are often full-bodied, warm, ageworthy, and show vibrant acidity and sun-drenched character. 4. History: Viticulture dates back over 2,000 years to Roman times. The region gained prestige in the 18th century, especially among noble families. Kéknyelű has long been emblematic of Badacsony’s identity. 5. Viticultural Area: Out of 4,277 hectares classified for vine-growing, around 1,400 hectares are under vine today, mostly 1st class vineyards. 6. Current Focus: Efforts are being made to highlight terroir specificity, especially through single-vineyard bottlings and participation in the BalatonBor project for regional identity.

Question 30

Somlo wine district overview?

Answer 30

A sub-region of Nagy-somlo which encompasses three hills Somló is one of Hungary’s smallest yet most distinctive wine regions, famed for its volcanic hill, flinty, mineral-driven white wines, and great ageability. Wines from Somló are known for their healing reputation, structure, and unique terroir expression—sometimes compared to Burgundy whites in character. 2. Geography & Climate: Located in western Transdanubia, Somló is a “witness mountain” (a denuded volcanic cone) rising above flat plains, with vineyards cultivated up to 350 meters. The region has a temperate continental climate with ample sunlight and well-distributed rainfall. Its balanced microclimate allows vine cultivation even on northern slopes. 3. Soils & Terroir: The soils are rich in basalt, volcanic tuff, iron clay, and erubase, especially on the steep, terraced upper slopes. These mineral-rich volcanic soils contribute to the wines' distinctive salty, flinty character and support long ageing potential. 4. Grape Varieties & Wine Style: Somló is nearly exclusively white wine-focused, with main varieties including: Juhfark – the region’s signature grape, linked to the “wedding night wine” tradition Olaszrizling, Furmint, Hárslevelű, Traminer, Chardonnay, and Müller-Thurgau Somló wines are typically oak-aged (but not heavily oaked), terroir-driven, and noted for their vibrant acidity, salty minerality, and dense texture. They benefit from 2+ years of ageing and are best served slightly warmer (14–15°C) than typical whites. 5. History & Legacy: With roots dating back over 1,000 years, Somló has been associated with healing properties and royal traditions, including being consumed on royal wedding nights. Its quality persisted even during war times, and by the 18th century, its reputation was widespread. It became an official wine district in 1893, reestablished in 1998. 6. Vineyard Area: Out of 1,142 hectares classified for viticulture, only about 531 hectares are currently planted—mostly by small, quality-focused producers.

Question 31

Name the most important wine districts of Upper Pannon wine region

Answer 31

Pannonhalma (north) Sopron (northwest) Mór (to a lesser extent) Known for Ezerjó, a rare Hungarian white grape

Question 32

Sopron wine district (Upper Pannon) overview?

Answer 32

near the Austrian border, specializing in light reds from Kékfrankos Sopron’s cool climate and partly calcareous soils typically yield wines dominated by red berry fruit and fresh spiciness, with high, dynamic acidity but elegant, restrained tannins as well as somewhat lower levels of alcohol. It has proclaimed itself the Capital of Kékfrankos Sopron is historically and geographically linked to Burgenland (Austria). Located by Lake Fertő / Lake Neusiedl, in the foothills of the Alps. Despite a climate more suited to whites, it is now best known for red wines, especially Kékfrankos Vineyards are in two main zones: North (Fertőrákos–Balf area, slopes into Lake Fertő – best for vines) East and south of Sopron (toward Fertőszentmiklós and Harka) Only ~1,500 ha under vine out of 4,287 ha total. Located in Győr-Moson-Sopron County. Complex: includes gneiss, mica schist, loess, Pannonian sandstone, Leitha limestone, and ranker soils rich in rock debris. Mineral-rich soils = minerally, structured wines. Cool, rainy, with subalpine influence. Wettest Hungarian wine district. Summer is cool, winters mild. Wind is common 🔴 Red: Kékfrankos (dominant) – lively, balanced, violet & raspberry, good acidity. Others: Zweigelt, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Pinot Noir. ⚪ White: Minor today. Zöldveltelini, Chardonnay, Zenit. Furmint & Aszú-style wines pre-phylloxera Red wine focus – despite a climate suited to whites. Kékfrankos = signature grape, with elegance and acidity. Burgenland connection, proximity to Lake Fertő = shared terroir. Historically important but lost ground after phylloxera and post-WWII changes. Cool climate, mineral soils, high-quality terroir potential

Question 33

Pannonhalma Wine District (Upper Pannon Wine Region) overview?

Answer 33

One of Hungary’s oldest wine regions, with Roman and monastic origins. Today, it is known for aromatic, full-bodied white wines with spice, structure, and ageing potential. Black grapes dominated historically, but white varieties now prevail Located in northwestern Transdanubia, Győr-Moson-Sopron County. Centred around the Pannonhalma, Csanak and Szemere Hills (max 317m elevation) Complex soils from Upper Miocene sands and clays, with Quaternary gravel. Topped with loess, brown forest soils, and loamy-loess. Soils provide minerality and richness, crucial for body and flavour. Temperate, moderately continental. Average sun and heat, but good rainfall and breezy conditions. Cool-climate character supports aromatic whites with high acidity ⚪ Whites (Dominant): Key varieties: Olaszrizling, Chardonnay, Traminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris (Szürkebarát), Irsai Olivér, Riesling, Pinot Blanc Wine style: Aromatic, flavourful, often full-bodied with zesty acidity and spice. Not just “light summer wines” — also age-worthy, structured whites. 🔴 Reds (Minor Role): Varieties: Pinot Noir (most successful), Kékfrankos, Merlot, Cabernet Franc Pinot Noir excels in good vintages, showing balance and complexity. 🔑 Key Takeaways for Study: Ancient monastic heritage; Pannonhalma Abbey still active. Known for cool-climate whites with richness, spice, and ageing potential. Tricollis brand marks revival of serious winemaking since 2002. Low-yield Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can produce high-quality wines. Soils and climate combine to yield characterful, precise, and mineral wines.

Question 34

Name the most important wine districts of Pannon wine region

Answer 34

Villany (southernmost) Szekszard

Question 35

Villany wine district (Pannon wine region) overview?

Answer 35

Initially dominated by Kadarka and Oportó (Portugieser), the region shifted to French varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in the 20th century. Gained independent wine district status in the late 1940s. 2. Geographical Location: Located in the southernmost part of Hungary, on the southeastern slopes of the Mecsek and Villány Hills. Divided into the Villány and Siklós subdistricts. 3. Soil: Dolomite and limestone rocks dominate, with soils varying from loess, loam, to red clay. The region's soils, especially around the limestone, yield wines with high acidity or softer, more approachable characteristics depending on the soil type. 4. Climate: Sub-Mediterranean microclimate—warm and sunny, one of Hungary’s earliest regions to warm up in the spring. 5. Grape Varieties & Wine Styles: White Varieties: Olaszrizling, Chardonnay, Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, and Traminer. Red Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Portugieser, Kékfrankos, Zweigelt, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah. Red wines are the region’s hallmark, especially Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, often requiring long ageing in oak for full expression. Portugieser is a light, fruity, easy-drinking wine, while RedY is a popular blend for everyday drinking. Villányi Franc (Cabernet Franc) is the flagship wine, requiring approval for the trademark after a sensory evaluation. 6. Notable Characteristics: Red wines dominate, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc producing age-worthy, full-bodied wines with potential for long-term cellaring. Villány’s wines are known for their soft, approachable reds but also feature more complex, tannic wines that mature well in oak.

Question 36

Szekszard wine district (Pannon) overview?

Answer 36

Located in Tolna County, Szekszárd sits between the Tolna-Baranya Hills and the Dunamenti Plain. 3. Soil: Loess soils dominate, mixed with sand and lime, providing complex and rich wines. The Luvisol brown forest soils found in certain areas are also important for vine growth. Soils are rich in active lime, which contributes to richer wines compared to sandy, lime-poor soils. 4. Climate: Temperate continental climate with warm summers and mild winters. High solar radiation and low precipitation, with minimal frost damage, benefiting sensitive varieties like Kadarka and Merlot. 5. Grape Varieties & Wine Styles: Red Wines: The region is known for red wines, particularly Kékfrankos, Kadarka, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Zweigelt. Kékfrankos is the most widely planted variety and a key component of Bikavér (Hungarian “Bull's Blood”). Bikavér is a blend of various reds, including Kékfrankos, and is an iconic wine style for Szekszárd. White Wines: Less significant but include Olaszrizling, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Tasting Notes: Szekszárd’s reds are known for their rich aromatics, lively acidity, and elegance. These wines are typically rounder, with softer tannins, making them more approachable when young. However, they also have great ageability. 6. Notable Characteristics: Bikavér is Szekszárd’s signature blend, known for its distinct structure and heritage. Red wines here are convivial, easy to drink, and perfect for daily enjoyment or special occasions. Kadarka, Kékfrankos, and Bikavér are deeply tied to the region's identity, with Kékfrankos being the most prominent variety

Question 37

Which is the largest wine district?

Answer 37

Kunság in Dannube wine region

Question 38

Situated between Hungary’s two major rivers, the iconic Danube and the Tisza, this large region covers most of Central Hungary, stretching to the Serbian border, and produces almost 30% of Hungary’s wine?

Answer 38

Danube

Question 39

Debrői Hárslevelű PDO (940 hectares) is a sub-region of the ?

Answer 39

Eger PDO, only for white wines from the Hárslevelű grape.

Question 40

What is Egri csillag ?

Answer 40

Egri Csillag is the white pair to Egri Bikavér blend of at least four primarily Carpathian Basin grape varieties, incl. Leányka, Kiralyleanyka, Olaszrizling, Viognier, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Szürkerbarat und Tramini. A minimum of four of these varieties must be included and make up at least 50% of the blend. Individually each must represent a minimum of 5%.

Question 41

Which is the PGI of Tokaj region?

Answer 41

Zemplén PGI

Question 42

Hungary’s smallest wine appellation?

Answer 42

Tihany PDO (95 hectares)

Question 43

Name the sub-region of the Kunság PDO. Only for whites and sparklings made from Ezerjó

Answer 43

Soltvadkerti Ezerjó PDO

Question 44

The spiritual home of the Ezerjó grape variety?

Answer 44

Mór PDO

Question 45

Single vineyard wines are called?

Answer 45

dűlő

Question 46

The highest vineyards in Hungary are?

Answer 46

Nagy Eged Hill to the north of the town of Eger boasts vines at 500 meters high

Question 47

Leanyka is mostly found in?

Answer 47

Eger, Bukk and Matra both dry and sweet, late-harvest wines. However, Leányka is more commonly used as a blending variety and is often key in Eger blends such as Egri Csillag. Varietal wines are relatively full-bodied with some floral notes, but with generally rather soft acidity

Question 48

The region is also known for a curiosity not grown elsewhere in Hungary, or indeed anywhere else except a small region in Austria, the white variety Cirfandli, or Zierfandler as it’s called in Austria (not to be confused with red Zinfandel)?

Answer 48

Pecs PDO

Question 49

What is Szekszárdi Bikavér?

Answer 49

A spicy Kékfrankos-led blend, which also includes a touch of Kadarka as well as up to a total of 40 percent Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. It must contain at least four varieties and be aged in oak for at least one year. It is fruity yet elegant, with silky tannins and a juicy full body. The premium version requires a year of further aging in oak and a further 12 months in bottle

Question 50

Hungary’s king of rosé, Tamás Dúzsi, is located ?

Answer 50

Szekszárd

Question 51

Tokaj wine can be made in two countries?

Answer 51

True (a smaller portion of the Tokaj region falls on the Slovak side of the border)

Question 52

What is Fordítás?

Answer 52

once popular in Tokaj, but is now made in very small quantities by few wineries. Fordítás means “turning over” and the wine is made from the second pressing after Aszú is made

Question 53

What is Tokaj Pezsgo?

Answer 53

A sparkling Tokaj wine

Question 54

Menoire grape is found in?

Answer 54

Eger

Question 55

What does feher and voros mean?

Answer 55

white and red

Question 56

Juhfark is found in?

Answer 56

Somlo

Question 57

What is the term Jegbor?

Answer 57

Ice wine