Tokaj - Wineries and Vineyards
Royal Tokaji Wine Company
Founded in 1990, the Royal Tokaji Wine Company played a pivotal role in the renaissance of Tokaj wines after the fall of communism in Hungary. The winery focuses on crafting premium Tokaji Aszú wines from its holdings in some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards, including Mézes Mály and Szent Tamás. Known for their exquisite balance of sweetness and acidity, Royal Tokaji’s wines are recognized worldwide for their quality and heritage. The winery also produces dry Furmint and late harvest wines that showcase the versatility of Tokaj’s terroir.
Disznókő
Disznókő is one of the most renowned and historic estates in the Tokaj region, with vineyards that have been cultivated since at least the 15th century. The estate is known for its breathtaking location on the southern slopes of the Tokaj Hill, where the unique microclimate and volcanic soils are ideal for producing Tokaji Aszú. Disznókő is celebrated for its elegant, balanced wines that are rich in flavor and complexity. The estate offers guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to explore its historic cellars and learn about the intricate process of making Tokaji wines.
Oremus
Oremus, part of the renowned Spanish winemaking group Vega Sicilia, is a historic estate with a deep commitment to quality. The winery’s vineyards include some of Tokaj’s best sites, and it specializes in both Tokaji Aszú and dry Furmint wines. Oremus emphasizes traditional methods, including hand-harvesting and meticulous selection of botrytized grapes. The estate’s wines are known for their complexity, long aging potential, and signature freshness. Oremus offers a range of wine experiences, from classic Aszú to innovative styles like Tokaji Eszencia, one of the rarest and most concentrated sweet wines in the world.
Patricius Winery
Patricius Winery is a family-owned estate that has quickly become a standout in the Tokaj region. The winery was established in the 1990s, but its vineyards have a much longer history, with many located in historically significant sites like Lapis and Sajgó. Patricius produces a wide range of wines, including dry Furmint, late harvest styles, and traditional Tokaji Aszú. The estate’s focus on quality and tradition, combined with modern winemaking techniques, has led to the creation of wines that consistently receive critical acclaim. The winery’s elegant tasting room and scenic location make it a popular destination for visitors to the region.
Szepsy
Szepsy is one of the most iconic names in Tokaj winemaking, with a lineage of winemakers dating back to the 16th century. István Szepsy, the current winemaker, is credited with revitalizing traditional Tokaji production and setting new standards for quality in the region. Szepsy focuses on low-yield vineyards in prime locations like Úrágya and Szent Tamás, producing some of the finest dry and sweet Tokaji wines. The wines are known for their purity, depth of flavor, and exceptional aging potential. Szepsy’s dedication to preserving Tokaj’s legacy while embracing innovation has earned him a legendary status in the wine world.
Samuel Tinon
Samuel Tinon is a French winemaker who has become a leading figure in the Tokaj region, known for his artisanal approach to crafting high-quality wines. Based in the village of Olaszliszka, Tinon specializes in small-batch production of Tokaji Aszú, dry Furmint, and the rare Tokaji Szamorodni. His wines are celebrated for their complexity, precision, and expression of terroir. Tinon is a strong advocate for natural winemaking methods, using minimal intervention to allow the unique character of the vineyards to shine through. The winery’s reputation for excellence has made it a must-visit for those exploring Tokaj.
Béres Vineyard and Winery
Béres Vineyard and Winery, located in Erdőbénye, is a relatively young estate that has quickly gained recognition for the quality of its wines. The winery is known for producing elegant and balanced Tokaji Aszú as well as distinctive dry wines from Furmint and Hárslevelű. Béres emphasizes sustainable viticulture and a deep respect for the natural environment, with a focus on expressing the unique terroir of the Tokaj region. The estate’s modern facilities and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent stop for wine enthusiasts looking to discover both traditional and innovative styles of Tokaji wine.
Kikelet Pince
Kikelet Pince is a boutique winery in the village of Tarcal, run by Stéphanie Berecz, a French-born winemaker who has become one of Tokaj’s rising stars. The winery focuses on crafting high-quality wines from small, carefully managed vineyards, with an emphasis on dry Furmint and Hárslevelű. Kikelet’s wines are known for their elegance, minerality, and expression of the volcanic soils that define the region. The winery’s intimate scale allows for meticulous attention to detail, resulting in wines that have garnered both local and international praise. Kikelet Pince is a testament to the exciting potential of Tokaj’s boutique wineries.