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Egri Bikavér, the ultimate Hungarian wine for Christmas
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Egri Bikavér is one of the best known Hungarian wines, so it’s only natural that it’s part of the Christmas menu in quite a few households. The versatility of this Kékfrankos based blend makes it easy to pair it with festive dishes regardless whether they represent traditional or modern cuisine. But to get the most out of the very best Egri Bikavérs we advise you to taste them on their own.
Egri Bikavér Basics
If you want to avoid standing cluelessly in front of a shelf loaded with Bikavérs in a store there are a few basic bits about Egri Bikavér which you should acquaint yourself with. The grapes which Egri Bikavér is made from can only come from the Eger wine region, the varieties are typically vinified separately and then the wines are later blended. The inclusion of Kékfrankos is mandatory furthermore this must be the variety with the highest proportion in the blend. There are three quality levels for Bikavér in Eger: classicus, superior and grand superior.
Egri Bikavér has the distinction of being the only red wine that has been declared a „Hungarikum”.
Bikavér in Eger
There is an extremely wide range of varieties grown in the region, so Eger has a long tradition of blending wines. Local wine makers are adamant that the best way to exploit the potential of the wine region is through crafting Egri Bikavér and its white conterpart Egri Csillag.
„Ours is a wine region of blends”, says winemaker Katalin Tóth, a member of the Egri Borműhely. „Bikavér has always had a prominent role in Eger and in recent years it has become a prestige product. It’s a good idea to open a bottle of mature Bikavér or a grand superior at Christmas as they have the capacity to bring joy to the festive table.”
Culinary tips for Christmas
Bikavér as a blend of many varieties with a major contribution by Kékfrankos is a wine that goes well with a multitude of dishes.