Wine of the Weekend

Marianum is named after the founder’s beloved wife, Mária (top right photo above). If she takes care of earthly things from heaven, she must be happy to see that her children have done great work, Marianum Cabernet Franc 2020 has collected a gold medal at Berliner Wine Trophy – just like vintage 2019.

The representatives of Berliner Wine Trophy informed us that the full list of medal winners would be published within a week.
“It leaves you craving for another glass…” – well, I am quoting from myself, I wrote this about Marianum 2019. The wine received 92 points in Meininger WeinWirtschaft magazine (the highest score for red wines in the panel tasting), won gold medal at VinAgora international wine contest and another one at Berliner Wine Trophy 2021. “Marianum is a typical example of Caberet Franc with a basket of berry fruits on the nose (blackberry, blueberry, red currant) and also a lot of spicies, even a hint of oriental spices. It has a decent body, yet, I would say it is more of a sleek beauty than a blockbuster beast. It has its integrated tannins, it has the body, it has pleasant acidity but most of all it has balance, elegance, harmony. A charming Cabernet Franc that leaves you cry for another glass…” Babarczi Marianum 2019 was the first Cabernet Franc of the winery, and clearly it was a stunning, elegant example of the variety.

Now vintage 2020 is on sale with notes of black berry fruits on the nose – blackberry, blueberry, black currant –, moderate oaky notes and sweet spices. Full body, firm and matured tannins, tart and sweet berry fruits on the palate with vanilla, nutmeg and clove. The barrel notes are quite pronounced in the aftertaste. A young wine with long ageing potential.

Red velvet

Babarczi Vineyard and Winery is situated in Pannonhalma wine region in the north-west part of Hungary. The climate is cooler, thus the region is ideal for crispy, fruity white wines. Babarczi is famous for its decent Sauvignon Blanc and its aromatic wines like Irsai Olivér – they are never overwhelming, always refreshing and balanced. To this white empire arrived the first red wine, a Kékfrankos in 2017 and soon a Merlot from the same vintage. Several competitors had not taken Babarczi Vineyard and Winery seriously, because they started with selling bulk wines. However, the estate proved its righteous place among the quality wineries soon, and with the red wines they stepped even higher on the grades. Babarczi Merlot 2017 was listed in Michelin star Borkonyha restaurant, and as the sommelier commented, the wine soon became one of the favourite of the guests. With Marianum the winery is undoubtedly a name to remember if you like elegant, silky-velvety, fruit driven, balanced red wines.

Visit the winery

The winery is worth a visit, especially if you like warm, home-like atmosphere. It is not far from Budapest (about 90 minutes). They offer tastings with some local food, cold or warm. In case guests prefer warm meal, 5 wines are presented and they serve pork stew with noodles and pickles to accompany the wines.
Booking is necessary.

More about Babarczi Vineyard and Winery