Hungary — wine

Egri Bikavér

Egri Bikavér ('Bull's Blood of Eger') is Hungary's most internationally famous red wine, produced in the historic wine city of Eger in northern Hungary. A blend of at least three varieties from a permitted list including Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), Kadarka, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. The Premium tier was established in 2004 with stricter requirements. The wines show dark fruit, paprika spice, herb, and volcanic mineral character.

Year Rating Notes
2022 Outstanding Eger vintage; Kékfrankos achieved exceptional concentration and volcanic mineral depth from the hillside terraces
2021 Fine balanced year with classic Bikavér character; good dark fruit and paprika-herb complexity
2020 Accessible vintage with soft tannins; dark cherry and herb character with good everyday typicity
2019 Benchmark Eger vintage; Premium Bikavér showing extraordinary complexity and aging potential beyond the appellation's typical horizon
2018 Classic year with excellent structure; Kékfrankos tannins firm and ripe with good aging capability