subject: Scope On Hungary [print this page] Scope On Hungary Scope On Hungary
No mountains, no coast, Hungary has kept a low profile among the holiday set.
But business travellers willing to bolt on some leisure time outside the city will be highly rewarded. But this unassuminggg nation including Slovakia and Austria - has other delights to offer: friendly people, low crime rates, cheap living good food, Hungarian Wine and even cheaper houses.
Located 2 hours drive northeast from its capital, UNESCO world heritage site Tokaj is Hungary's most famous wine region, producing both dry and sweet wines.
It is the latter, the lusciously honeyed Tokay Aszu (pronounced "ossu") for which this region is so famous. Made from grapes afflicted by "noble rot", which concentrates the sugar content, the sweet wine has been Hungary's crowning glory for hundreds of years.
Many hundred years ago it was the favourite drink among Europe's royal households. It is said that King Louis XIV of France liked it so much that he called it "The King of wines and wine of Kings". Even Peter the Great was an admirer; "I was conquered by Tokaji wine," .
This was not always the case. It is not a surprise that Hungarian Wines are somewhat underrated among modern enthusiasts
"The production methods are unique and it is arguably where great wine was created... between 1700 and 1737". Today, great wines are once again being made in Tokaj and more travellers are coming to the region each year.
The Tokaj region is divided into 28 intimate towns and villages which visitors can easily travel throughout, stopping along the way at the various wineries and wine cellars. Most wineries are owned by individual families.
Aside from the wines, there is much else to explore. Mansions which once belonged to 18th and 19th century merchants can be found in Tokaj's centre. There is also a local museum, which has displays of the region's history and wine making culture.
Tokaj may not compare in size to other wine regions in the world but its intimate and modest feel is its greatest appeal. As Howkins says, "There are not many undiscovered wine legends. The region is fascinating because it is still in a gentle time warp. The contrast is palpable and enjoyable."
