Tokaj, Hungary: Exploring the Vineyards of the Golden Wine Region
Tokaj, Hungary:
Hungary isn’t usually found on the top list of European bucket list destinations. I think it tends to be overlooked and underrated. Of course, everyone knows Budapest and as one of my favorite cities I am glad it helps to put the country on the map. However, there are some smaller towns that I truly think are hidden gems and worth the visit. Tokaj, the oldest of Hungary’s wine regions and a Unesco World Heritage Site, located in the Northeastern part of Hungary is definitely one of those hidden gems. It is a quaint little town that has charm radiating from every street. Tokaj is famous for its sweet white dessert wine, Tokaji Aszú, made from grapes that have been infected with botrytis bunch rot. I know what you’re thinking, rot??? But trust me when I say, they know what they’re doing!
The two rivers in this region, the Bodrog and the Tisza, create a micro-climate that is great for growing Furmint grapes, which are used to make both dry and sweet wines. With high levels of moisture and plenty of sunshine, this region has just the right climate for noble rot. One of the most unique facts about this wine however is how labor intensive it is to harvest. Each grape must be selected at the perfect time, therefore it means they must be hand picked! Can you image? Lets take a look at what else we will cover in this article:
ACCOMMODATION:
We only took a few day trip here so we never stayed overnight, but if you’re looking for accommodation you can search here for tons of options available:
SITES:
Tokaj Museum:
Tokaji Museum is in a 17th century, copf-style townhouse, filled with original frescoes, an interesting chimney system and a 16th century cellar under the house. It features exhibits of local geology, the flora and the fauna of the Tokaji Mountains, as well as, the aszú sorting table in the cellar, some winemaking tools, and religious icons in Greek and Russian Orthodox styles. They are open everyday 10-6pm except for Monday.
Roman Catholic Church:
In the center of Tokaj is the Roman Catholic Church of the Heart of Jesus, built in the Neo-Romanesque style. The first church of the millennial settlement was built towards the end of the 11th century, which was almost completely destroyed during the Tartar invasion. It had to be rebuilt several times. Since 1695 it has belonged to the Catholics, in the 18-19. It was also renovated after several fires in the 16th century and then gained its final form in 1909. It is beautiful inside and out, plus its location is quite great. In the center, monumentally, yet modestly, the church is a beautiful addition to the heart of this adorable city.
Rákóczi street:
This street has quite a few cafes, bars, smaller winery’s and even some government buildings. However, the beginning of the street closest to the Heart of Jesus church is what caught my attention right away. They have a small installation of the hanging umbrellas, each that has a sign from a sponsre from one of the local businesses to offer things to do and see while in Tokaj.
ACTIVITIES:
You cannot visit a famous wine region and not participate in a wine tasting or tour, therefore below I have named our favorite winery! Prices range from 1.500-8,000 Ft ($4-30) and include a tasting of 2-6 generous pours of wine.
Hímesudvar winery:
I love a good old fashion family- owned winery. There’s something about the pride they have for it that brings an extra level of enjoyment to the winery experience. The winery has been run by the family for over 30 years. They have 3 hectares and produce around 10,000 bottles per year. The building where they operate was built in the 16th century as a hunting lodge for the King of Hungary. The winery is open from 10am-6pm daily and you can stop in without an appointment to have a glass of wine. For their mini or classic wine tasting, you do need an appointment.
Website: https://www.himesudvar.hu/english.html
Address: Tokaj, Bem út 2.
Phone: +36 47 352 416
What to Eat in Tokaj:
LaBor Bistro:
La Bor Bistro is located right in the center of the lovely little town of Tokaj. You can park your car across the street for free and even sit out on the patio (if the weather cooperates). La Bor works with seasonal, local ingredients therefore the menu changes frequently. The dishes are a Hungarian fusion – often with an Italian flair. My partner chose to go the simple route with a pizza, and I opted for the vegetarian risotto. I must say, all summer I have been craving a good risotto and boy, oh boy did they deliver!
Website: https://laborbistro.hu/
Address: Tokaj, Bethlen Gábor út 1
Phone: +36 70 883 8888
Extra:
NOTE ABOUT DRIVING: Hungary has a zero-tolerance drink and driving law. That means you can’t even sip and spit. To make sure you’re traveling responsibly between wineries, choose a designated driver, or better yet – hire a driver.
Tokaj is definitely a wine region worth visiting. Between trying the exciting dry Furmint wines and indulging on the sweet Aszu wines, you’ll feel completely spoiled. The wineries are all very welcoming and fun to visit, so make sure to ass Tokaj to your list of must visits in Hungary!
Happy Travels xx
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