Bikavér

Bulls' Blood

Officially, Bikavér ("BEE-KAH-VEEHR") a cuvée of three red wines, usually Kadarka, Kékfrankos, Portugieser (Kékoportó), Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Menoire, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and the modern Austrian hybrids, Blauburger and Zweigelt. The origins of the word Bikavér, or "Bulls' Blood" are not crystal clear, but the most common legend is it that the name was given by the marauding Turks, who couldn't figure out how the Hungarian armies could be so fierce in battle. As non-drinkers by religion, they put it down to the dark red liquid they were drinking, suspecting that it was Bull's Blood. The name has been used as a marketing brand ever since, particularly in the 1970s, when low-quality Bikavérs were exported all over the world. This damaged the Bulls' Blood name considerably, but it is gradually making a recovery on the international stage. The most famous Bikavérs come from Eger, scene of the most famous victory against the Turks, but Szekszárd also has its own varieties.

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Upcoming Food and Wine Events:

Lucullus BT Pálinka and Chocolate Tasting
Friday, Mar 19, Casa de la Música
A unique event where you can try pálinka with matching types of chocolate. Led by master confectioner Anita Király, sommelier Attila Petzold and Lucullus BT president Gábor Turóczi. If you'd like to attend, send e-mail to elnokseg@lucullusbt.hu one day before the event at the latest. Price: Ft 4,500.
VinCE Wine Event
Saturday, Mar 20, Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal
"VinCE" is probably the most important wine event of the year. Visitors will have the chance to taste the most significant wines from the region including Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia, Georgia and Romania. Programs will include lectures and master classes.
Bortársaság Dúzsi, Merfelsz Wines and Bestillo Pálinka Tasting
Wednesday, Mar 24, Bortársaság (Batthyány utca HQ)
Wines and pálinkas to be tasted are Dúzsi Shiraz 2007 2006, Rose 2009, Görögszó Cabernet 2006 Szekszárd, Merfelsz Bikavér 2007, Bel Canto 2008, Bestillo Gönci Kajszibarack pálinka, Szilva pálinka, Birs pálinka and Vadcseresznye pálinka. Price: Ft 5,500.
Taste Hungary Wine Workshops - Class #1: Hungarian Sparklers
Thursday, Mar 25, Első Pesti Rétesház Kávéház
Taste Hungary presents the first class in its series of monthly Hungarian wine workshops. Price is Ft 6,000.
Tasty Classics Dinner
Friday, Mar 26, Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal
Price: Ft 9,900.
WineTime Welcomes Springtime - Wine Tasting Event
Friday, Mar 26, British Embassy
Guest winery at the event will be Hilltop Neszmély. Registrations must be confirmed by March 24 the latest. To register send e-mail to ibalogh@winetime.hu or call 06-30-546-9252.

Bikavér