Thank God It’s Friday, and what a Friday! The first Friday of May is dedicated to Sauvignon Blanc, one of the most exciting grape varieties of the world. In Hungary Sauvignon is not in the top 10 white varietals – in fact it is the 11th most planted white grape variety, but since half of our country is considered to be cool(er) climate region, we have some wonderful examples.

The ever most comprehensive guide is available

“Over the past decade, Sauvignon’s popularity has soared to unprecedented heights, fuelling a virtuous circle where wine enthusiasts have become increasingly inquisitive and adventurous in their choice of styles, and winemakers have been keen to oblige by constantly pushing the boundaries of experimentation and venturing into unchartered territory. The result is an ever-broadening range of profiles and provenances offering limitless scope for consumers to extend their repertoire“ – wrote Sharon Nagel, the author of Sauvignon – Global Guide, a digital publication available from today, published by Concours Mondial du Sauvignon.

For requesting your Global Guide click here.

3 great Hungarian Sauvignon Blanc wines from 3 great cool(er) climate regions

(As my wine scholar friend, Dániel Ercsey commented, the so called cool climate region does not exist in Hungary any more.)

Haraszthy Sauvignon Blanc, 2020, Etyek

Etyek is just a stone throw distance from Budapest, a favourite destination for the foodies and winelovers of the capital. Haraszthy Vineyard is one of the pioneers of the region with trustworthy, great quality wines. In the Hungarian supplement of the latest edition of UK Decanter magazine Haraszthy SB has been selected in the 30 great buys of “Hungary beyond Tokaj” – by Caroline Gilby MW, Oz Clarke and Tamás Czinki MS. At No13 Haraszty SB is described as follows: “Expressive, with floral, lime and exotic fruit notes and a touch of fresh-cut grass. This is textbook Sauvignon Blanc with lovely purity, mouthwatering flavours and vivid freshness. The vineyards are planted on the limestone hills of Etyek, where constant cool breezes contribute to slow ripening of the grapes, giving real intensity of flavour and refreshing acidity.” In the UK available in Lidl stores.
More abouth Haraszthy Vineyard

1014 Dubicz Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Mátra

Mátra, the wine region of soul healing forests and gentle, sunny slopes is an ideal region for Sauvignon Blanc. Dubicz is a family winery with 115-year history and 100 hectares of own vineyard. Only 5000 bottles were made of this SB, the retail price is really friendly, only 5–6 euros / bottle. “The wine reflects the charm of the variety. The palate emphasizes the typical notes of the variety even more than the nose: green gooseberry and enchanting elderflower paired with vibrant acidity.” The number 1014 in the name of the wine refers to the highest peak in Hungary called ‘Kékes’ peak, and it is also the name of the premium level of wines at Dubicz winery.

More about Dubicz Winery

Paulus Sauvignon Blanc, Mór, 2020

Once upon a time there was a young guy, who decided to leave his home country at the age of 19. Pál Molnár went to the mountainous Switzerland and established a company of mechanical products. He was successful, the company was thriving, but he kept dreaming of his homeland, the family harvests and the lovely vineyards of Mór wine region (the second smallest in Hungary). Therefore after 38 years he sold his Swiss company and returned to Hungary to fulfil his dream. And he did it! Paulus wines have rapidly become successful and popular, and with their prices they are absolutely champions! Paulus SB costs only around 4 euros. “The exciting, spicy nose of this Sauvignon Blanc is reminiscent of blossoming trees. Vivacious, juicy, refreshing, zesty.”

More about Paulus Wine House