Perfect Pairings: A Guide to Hungarian Wines and Traditional Foods

Hungarian Wine and Food Pairing Guide

Hungarian cuisine offers an array of bold, flavorful dishes that deserve equally remarkable wines. Hungary’s diverse wine regions produce an impressive variety of reds, whites, and dessert wines that pair beautifully with the country’s traditional foods. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best Hungarian wines and the dishes that complement them, so you can elevate your dining experience at home or at our restaurant.

1. Tokaji Aszú – The Golden Dessert Wine

Known as the “king of wines and wine of kings,” Tokaji Aszú is Hungary’s most famous wine, renowned for its rich, sweet flavor with notes of honey, apricot, and dried fruit. Made from grapes affected by noble rot, this dessert wine pairs perfectly with rich, indulgent dishes.

Pair With:

• Desserts: Serve Tokaji Aszú with Hungarian desserts like Dobos torte (layered sponge cake with caramel topping) or Somlói galuska (trifle). The wine’s sweetness balances beautifully with the richness of these confections.
• Foie Gras: The sweetness and acidity of Tokaji complement the richness of foie gras or libamáj, a Hungarian delicacy.

2. Egri Bikavér – The Bold Red

Egri Bikavér, also known as “Bull’s Blood,” is a robust red wine blend from the Eger region. It has earthy, spicy flavors with dark berry notes, making it a versatile choice for hearty Hungarian dishes.

Pair With:

• Goulash: The bold flavors of goulash, Hungary’s iconic beef stew seasoned with paprika, match perfectly with the full-bodied character of Egri Bikavér.
• Roasted Meats: This wine pairs well with roasted or grilled meats, such as kolbász (Hungarian sausage) or pork dishes, as its tannins balance out the fat and spice.

3. Furmint – The Dry White

Furmint is a versatile grape variety used to produce both dry and sweet wines. The dry version is crisp, with citrus and green apple notes, and pairs well with lighter fare.

Pair With:

• Fish Dishes: Serve Furmint with Hungary’s famous halászlé (fisherman’s soup), a spicy fish soup, as the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the soup.
• Poultry: This wine also pairs well with lighter dishes like paprikás csirke (chicken paprikash), as its crispness balances the creamy sauce.

4. Kékfrankos – The Fruity Red

Kékfrankos (also known as Blaufränkisch) is a red wine that offers fruity, spicy flavors, with notes of cherries and blackberries. It’s a lighter red compared to Egri Bikavér, making it a great companion to less intense dishes.

Pair With:

• Stuffed Cabbage (Töltött Káposzta): This popular Hungarian dish, filled with ground meat and rice, pairs well with the balanced fruitiness of Kékfrankos.
• Duck or Goose: Serve Kékfrankos with dishes like roasted duck or goose, as its acidity cuts through the rich flavors of these meats.

5. Juhfark – The Unique White

Juhfark is a lesser-known but highly regarded white wine from the volcanic soils of Somló. Its minerality and refreshing acidity make it a unique pairing for a variety of dishes.

Pair With:

• Light Starters: Pair Juhfark with starters like lángos (Hungarian fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese) or salads, as its minerality complements these simple yet flavorful dishes.
• Poultry and Fish: The zesty acidity of Juhfark also works well with lighter poultry or grilled fish dishes.

Visit Us for the Perfect Wine and Food Pairing

At Taste From Hungary, we not only offer authentic Hungarian cuisine but also feature a selection of Hungarian wines to perfectly complement your meal. Whether you’re dining in or visiting our Magyar Bolt next door at 50 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1EN, our staff can recommend the ideal wine for your chosen dish. Experience the best of Hungarian culinary traditions paired with wines that bring out the full potential of each dish.

Whether you’re a fan of robust reds or sweet dessert wines, Hungary’s diverse wine regions have something to offer for every palate. Next time you visit us, be sure to ask about our wine list and discover the perfect pairing for your meal!