Bull’s blood: Hungary’s legendary red wine
Egervin Vineyard Co. Ltd, the famous Bull's Blood wine producer in Hungary.
Overview
Egri Bikavér is a type of red wine from Northern Hungary. It is produced in the wine region around the town of Eger. Besides Tokaji Aszú, Bull’s Blood is one of the most internationally recognized wines from Hungary.
The production of Bull’s Blood is regulated by the Hungarian Wine Making Act which has strict requirements for how the wine is to be harvested and produced. One requirement is the wine must contain three or more grape varietals such as Kékfrankos, Blauburger, Portugiser, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Kadarka, Zweigelt.
A view from the Castle of Eger. The castle is most famous for repelling the Turkish attack in 1552.
In addition, grape processing, wine technology and bottling must be contained in cellars that are officially registered within the Eger Wine District. Skin fermentation and oak aging are also a fundamental requirement. The wine must also bear the state registered band around the neck, and cannot be sold without it. This was implemented to guard against imitations and is a guarantee the bottle of Bull’s Blood comes from Eger.
History
There are no specific documents regarding the origin of Bull’s Blood, however, there are many legends about the drink.
According to one legend, the drink was established after the Turks try to invade the town of Eger. During the siege, the townspeople of Eger opened their wine cellars and drank red wine to give them strength to fight. The wine spilled over their beards and onto their armor, coloring them blood red. As the townspeople continued their fight against the invading Turks, word spread quickly they were drinking the blood of bulls to make themselves strong and fierce. The Turks became fearful and withdrew. As a result, the siege was broken.
Taste Profile
Deep ruby color that is full-bodied, smooth, with a soft acidity and tartness. Bull’s Blood is best enjoyed with game, beef, or spicy food especially with Hungarian dishes like gulyás (goulash) or paprikás.
Further Information
For more information regarding Bull’s Blood and the Eger wine region, you can visit the following websites as listed below.
Egervin Vineyard Co. Ltd.
http://www.egervin.hu
Sipping “Bulls Blood” Wine in Valley of Beautiful Women – The Seattle Times
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/travel/2003687554_webeuropucci02.html
Eger Online – The First Tourist Website for the Town of Eger, Hungary
http://www.egeronline.com
Related posts:
- The legend of Bull’s Blood
- Hungarian wine facts
- Hungary’s Wine Regions
- Mulled wine
- Austrian Wine Seminar at London International Wine Fair
Category: Wine
Hi Suzanne,
As I am deeply dedicated to promote Hungarian (wine) culture I was glad to find ur site and I find it superb. I really like the idea and contents of this blog. You are good!
Anyway I am writing to you to let u know if you need any recommendations or any info regarding Hungarian gastronomy/food/people/events etc. or if i could assist you in any ways pls don’t hesitate to contact me.
Merry Christmas &
Kind regards,
another Hungarian girl
Hi Annabarbi,
Thanks for your wonderful comment. I’m always happy to hear from others who share the same passion about Hungarian wine. I will gladly keep you in mind for upcoming posts. As I’m sure you’ve discovered there’s certainly a lack of information out there about Hungarian wine especially in North America. I hope this will eventually change because Hungary really does have some wonderful wines to offer.
Merry Christmas to you too! All the best and bye for now!
[...] award for “White Wine of the Year“… in Britain… in 1998. * Listen to the legend of Bull’s Blood – invading marauders and children be [...]