The 2009 edition of television news anchor István Pálffy's guide to the 100 best Hungarian wines was recently released, deluxe.hu reports. The guide not only helps its readers choose a wine for under Ft 2000, but also adds which ones are good mixed with soda water, which are good for Sunday lunch, or which make a good companion at a game of cards.

Wines are divided into five price categories, each of which are then rated by Pálffy according to his own "Pálffy Points" system, which consists of taste, scent, being true to type, appearance and the accomplishments of the winery in question, with each category being worth a maximum of twenty points.

According to Pálffy, drinkable wines start at 51 points, and five star wines at 91 points, although there are relatively few of the latter. The majority of five star wines cost over Ft 4000 (€14), although there are a few between Ft 1000-2000 (€3.50-€7).

Non-connoisseur wine drinkers should also note that Pálffy spends more time discussing a wine and winery's history than what type of special aroma or attributes it may possess. Icons accompanying the wine review also give suggestions as to the food or occasion to drink a certain type of wine at.

Those further interested in Pálffy's recommendations can purchase the book at their local bookstore for Ft 2490 (€9).