Hidden gem: Hungarian wine region named one of Europe’s top wine destinations!

Hungary’s Bükkalja region—particularly the Bükk Wine Region—has emerged as one of Europe’s premier wine destinations. According to a recent study conducted by Emerald Cruises, Eger has been ranked the continent’s second-best wine region, surpassing world-renowned areas such as Tuscany and Rioja. Situated along the southern slopes of the Egri-Bükkalja in Heves County, the Bükk Wine Region also extends into parts of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County.

Key features of the region

According to Bor.hu, the Eger Wine Region lies nestled among the rolling hills of Bükkalja and boasts a unique microclimate and volcanic soil—ideal conditions for producing full-bodied, spicy red wines. Its most iconic offering is Egri Bikavér, a red blend with protected designation of origin status. The region cultivates a diverse range of grape varieties, including Olaszrizling, Chardonnay, Hárslevelű, Leányka, Kékfrankos, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Portugieser, Kadarka, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Excellent tasting venues

As Lelépő reports, Eger is home to 16 highly rated wine tasting venues that stand out not only for the quality of their wines but also for their exceptional hospitality. These tasting rooms allow visitors to sample wines at their source while learning about the stories and traditions of local vintners. Notable locations for tasting regional highlights include Thummerer Winery, Gál Tibor Winery, Béla Vincze Winery, János Bolyki Winery, Demeter Winery, Gróf Buttler Winery, Kovács Nimród Winery, and Tamás Pók Winery.

Special characteristics of the Bükk Wine Region

The Bükk Wine Region spans the southern slopes of the central Bükk Mountains, covering 17,600 hectares—of which 1,750 are dedicated to vineyards. Time Out magazine highlights Egri Bikavér as the most renowned wine of the area. Key grape varieties include Olaszrizling, Leányka, Muscat Ottonel, Szürkebarát, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay, with the region also known for the celebrated Domoszlói Muskotály. Wineries offering tastings include Szőke Mátyás Winery, Dubicz Winery, Bárdos and Son Winery, Centurio Vineyard, and Ludányi Winery.

The region’s distinctive stone architecture owes much to its volcanic tuff rock, into which the famed wine cellars and underground networks have been carved. This stone-building tradition is also reflected in local agricultural buildings and residences, including cave dwellings and cellar houses.

Major recognition

In the recent ranking of Europe’s top wine regions, Eger placed just behind Bordeaux, which took the top spot. Tuscany, long celebrated as a cornerstone of Italian winemaking, came in third. Other notable regions included Rioja, Champagne, Franciacorta, Santorini, the Douro Valley, and Priorat.

At present, however, destinations such as Crete, Provence, and parts of Sicily are gaining popularity—reflected in a sharp rise in Google search interest. Crete alone has seen a 400% increase in searches over the past three months.

Eger and the Bükkalja region continue to play an increasingly prominent role—not only in Hungarian winemaking but also on the broader European stage. For anyone wishing to explore the stories and vintages within each bottle, this region offers a truly unique experience. With its rich stone heritage and distinctive wines, it is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

To read or share this article in Hungarian, click here: Helló Magyar

Read also:

• A guide to the most famous Hungarian wines and grape varieties
• Hungarian wine conquers one of the world’s best restaurants