Kadarka, once the backbone of Hungary’s historic Bikavér blends, is a late-ripening, thin-skinned grape known for its light body, vibrant acidity, and spicy red fruit character. Thought to have arrived in Hungary via the Balkans in the 16th century, it flourished in Szekszárd and Eger, producing wines prized for their finesse and aromatic complexity. Traditionally tricky to cultivate due to its susceptibility to rot, modern vineyard management has revived Kadarka, with top producers crafting refined, peppery reds that echo Pinot Noir in their elegance. Once nearly lost to high-yield clones, today’s low-intervention, old-vine expressions highlight its delicate yet expressive nature.
