2024-03-04

On the opening day of the Hungarian Wine Summit, participants can delve deeper into the most trending topics in Hungarian winemaking. The nine masterclasses led by Hungarian experts will guide you from the renowned natural sweet wines from Tokaj through iconic reds to natural wines as well as young talents.

The All Stars masterclass will guide the audience through Hungary’s winemaking excellence where each sip is a testament to Hungary’s viticultural heritage and commitment to quality, while the Only in Hungary masterclass discovers the beauty of indigenous varieties, exploring Hungary’s native and adopted grape varieties. Discover Juhfark and Kéknyelű, each bearing the imprint of their ancestral terroirs, and uncover the secrets of Villányi Franc and the innovative spirit of PIWI grapes, which bridge tradition with modernity.

For those, who thought Tokaj wines were just for dessert, the Sweet Tokaj masterclass is must. The tasting adventure will guide you through late harvest sweet Szamorodni to the legendary Aszú wines, uncovering secrets that have captivated wine enthusiasts for centuries.

Hungary’s volcanic landscapes are home to such iconic wine districts as Badacsony, Somló, Mátra, Eger and Tokaj. Be part of The Volcanic Wine Rocks! masterclass and explore Hungary’s volcanic terroirs and wines as well as the profound influence of ancient eruptions on winemaking. From the mineral-driven elegance of single varietal wines to the intensity of volcanic blends, you can taste the untamed spirit of these extraordinary reds and whites.              

If you are more of a bubbles person, get ready to sparkle and shine with our Sparkling Stars masterclass and discover the bubbly side of Hungarian winemaking. Discover the long-established brands and aspiring newcomers making traditional method sparkling wines  and travel through Hungary’s sparkling landscape. 

Heading towards heavier red wines, visitors can uncover single varietal wines from Hungary’s most widely planted black grape. Kékfrankos, celebrated for its peppery spice and juicy fruit notes, will show some of its many faces from different wine regions. Meanwhile, Bikavér, the iconic “Bull’s Blood” blend from the cool climate of Eger and from the gentle hills of Szekszárd, will delight you with a symphony of flavours and impress with its quality due to strict winemaking regulations and dedicated producers.

Besides traditional methods and historic wines, Hungary also has a revolutionary approach thanks to its young winemakers. The Rebel Yell masterclass will shed light on the bold, innovative spirit of a new wave of winemaking talent within Hungary.  From avant-garde techniques to daring experiments, the next generation of vintners are defying convention, re-shaping the vinicultural landscape and redefining the art of winemaking.

Moreover, at the Natural Harmony masterclass, attendees can discover sustainable winemaking in Hungary. Delve deeper into the world of organic, biodynamic and natural winemaking practices, where respect for the land is paramount. Discover how Hungarian winemakers are embracing nature’s rhythms to craft wines that resonate with authenticity and integrity. From vine to glass, their commitment to sustainability defines each bottle.

However, if you’d rather focus on palate-pleasing, easy drinking wines, join the Everyday Local Heroes masterclass for a delightful exploration of wines crafted for accessible and affordable enjoyment. From charming whites to versatile reds, these local heroes will make any occasion pleasurable. Sip on fresh, crisp flavours bursting with fruitiness and enjoy the simple pleasures found in every glass as we toast the wines that make life’s moments extraordinary.

Whichever masterclass you choose, one thing is for sure: at the end of the day, you will leave the Summit as an expert on Hungarian wines.