Attractive, deep ruby colour. Spicy nose shows a core of dark stewed fruit and a hint of chocolate. Rich, chewy palate with intense black pepper spice, followed by dark cherry and blackcurrant notes and a touch of vanilla. Lively acidity, tight tannic structure, and long mineral finish. This classic Bikaver promises to age very well so worth laying down a bottle or two.

A great accompaniment to rich meat dishes such as paprikash chicken, beef stew and lamb chops, as well as traditional Hungarian classics like goulash soup. Try with a spicy vegetable casserole or pair with some aged cheese such as Comté or Manchego.

Serving temperature: 16-18°C

Expert Opinion

Oz Clarke - Wine Writer - 91 points - Decanter April 2021

This wine has the typical chewy drinkability of Eger red: dry cherry skins and cranberry, nut husk savouriness and apple pip bitterness. And is there a slight whiff of blossom?

Details

Grape varieties: Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Zweigelt, Blauburger, Portugieser

Soil type: Brown forest soil

Fermentation: Spontaneous, in stainless steel tank

Ageing: 18 months in oak barrels

Alcohol content: 13.0%

Bottle size: 0.75l

Special feature: Vegan; unfiltered

Awards: Sommelier Wine Award 2019 - Gold Medal

Winemaker

Bolyki Winery, Eger - Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

János Bolyki is a first-generation winemaker at the vanguard of a new wave of dynamic young wine professionals, offering a youthful take on classic Hungarian wines. In his Eger winery, located in an abandoned stone quarry with the cellars carved straight into the rock, he produces a range of red and white wines which evoke the character and rich minerality of this unique terroir. For a refreshing taste of Eger, look no further than a bottle of Bolyki.

Recipe Ideas

Chicken Paprikash, called Paprikás Csirke in Hungarian, is a popular weekend staple and a classic of the Hungarian culinary arts. As suggested by its name, smoky and aromatic paprika is at the heart of the dish, which combines simple ingredients into comfort food paradise.

Goulash (Gulyas) is the most famous Hungarian dish in the world and one of the country's national dishes. This is a very traditional beef goulash recipe made with simple ingredients like meat, peppers and root vegetables elevated to perfection by the use of Hungarys most famous spice: paprika.