Tokaj — The Wine of Kings

The Tokaj wine region (Tokaj-Hegyalja) in northeastern Hungary has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 and is one of the oldest protected wine regions in the world (classified since 1730 — 120 years before Bordeaux!). Here, the Tokaji Aszú is produced — the "Wine of Kings, King of Wines," as Louis XIV called it.

Tokaji Aszú — Liquid Gold

The Aszú is one of the most extraordinary wines in the world: Handpicked from Furmint grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), the shriveled, raisin-like sweet berries (aszú) are pressed drop by drop into a wine of amber-golden color, complex aroma (honey, apricot, ginger, roasted almond), and nearly immortal longevity. A 5-Puttonyos Aszú (the classic quality level) can mature for decades, even centuries — bottles from the 18th century are stored in the cellars of Tokaj.

The cellars themselves are an experience: Kilometers of tunnels carved into volcanic tuff stone, the walls covered with Cladosporium cellare — a black noble mold that feeds on alcohol vapors and creates a unique microclimate. The temperature remains at 10–12°C year-round, the humidity at 95%. Standing in these cellars, surrounded by barrels and bottles, the mold on the walls, the scent of wine and history in the air — it is timeless.

Wine Tasting in Tokaj

The small town of Tokaj (approx. 4,000 inhabitants) at the confluence of the Tisza and Bodrog rivers is the center of the region. In the main street and side alleys, wine cellars line up. A tasting (3–6 wines) costs 2,000–5,000 HUF (5–13€) — for wines that cost three times as much in export. Must-try: dry Furmint (the new trend), Szamorodni (semi-dry to sweet, from whole grapes, not selected), and of course the 5-Puttonyos Aszú.

Recommended wineries: Disznókő (magnificent cellar, good introduction), Oremus (Álvaro Palacios quality), Royal Tokaji (the classic), and Patricius (modern line). Most offer tours with cellar visits and tastings — reserve in advance!

Miskolctapolca — Cave Bath

Just an hour's drive west of Tokaj lies Miskolctapolca with its unique cave bath (Barlangfürdő): You swim in natural limestone caves, through underground passages and pools, in 30°C warm thermal water. The light refracts on the stalactites, the acoustics echo mysteriously, and you float through rooms shaped by nature over millions of years. A worldwide unique experience. Admission: approx. 4,000 HUF (10€). The bath also has an outdoor pool and is open year-round.