Famous for its full-bodied and spicy reds, the Szekszárd wine region is one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary. The Celts were the first to establish vine growing in the region more than 2000 years ago. The best-known grape of the Szekszárd region is Kadarka and even though it’s not the most planted grape, it became the flagship of the region. Kadarka’s role is most notable in the 'Bull's Blood of Szekszárd' (Szekszárdi Bikavér), the southern version of the famous Bull’s Blood of Eger. The blend made in Szekszárd is spicier, thanks to Kadarka grapes. Szekszárd, similar to the Villany region, is located in the southern part of Hungary with long hot summers and mild winters favoring red grapes.
Over the past years Szekszárd has produced many quality red wines winning numerous awards in both national and international competitions. Wines from the Szekszárd region may not be well known internationally, but vine growing and wine making in the region has traditions dating back thousands of years. For example, did you know that red wines from Szekszárd inspired the likes of Schubert, Franz Liszt, Zoltán Kodály and Pope Pius IX?
Grape Varieties
Kadarka is a key player in Szekszárd along with the ‘Bordeaux varieties’ like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Kékfrankos, Pinot Noir and Zweigelt are also planted.
Szekszárd Wines
‘Bull's Blood of Szekszárd' (Szekszárdi Bikavér), Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Kékfrankos, Merlot, Syrah and several Rosés and Cuvées
Szekszárd Wineries
Takler, Vesztergombi and Vida
Wine Tourism
The wine cellars in Szekszárd are more spread out. From the Takler Winery in the south it takes about half an hour by car to reach the Vesztergombi Winery in the North-East. Most cellars welcome visitors for wine tasting. One of the best time to visit is in September for the annual Wine Festival.
Getting there from Budapest
Szekszárd is about a two-hour drive from Budapest. Take highway M6 to Szekszárd. Buses leave from the Népliget bus terminal. Trains leave from Budapest Déli Railway Station and the journey takes about three hours.
