Introducing the Egri Csillag - A star flying high!
Traditionally the Eger wine region in North-Eastern Hungary was a white wine region. But today it is more known for its bold, characteristic red wines, particularly the Egri Bikavér aka Bulls Blood red wine cuveé.
But did you know, that the Bikavér has a little sister in Eger, called the Egri Csillag? ⭐
The Hungarian word “Csillag” means “star”. It is also the name of the historic novel about Eger and the region by the Hungarian author Géza Gárdonyi.
Why an Egri Csillag wine?
The category of Egri Csillag (‘Star of Eger’) wine was established in 2011 aiming to enable the local wine producers to show the capabilities of the Egri terroir in exceptional white wines. Today it is still overshadowed by its red counterpart, but it is worth exploring this diverse white wine cuveé. Through the interplay of the used varieties and the specifics of the Eger terroir, a unique wine is born that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world.
Which grape varieties are used?
The Egri csillag wine is a blend of at least four primarily Carpathian Basin grape varieties, incl. Leányka, Kiralyleanyka, Olaszrizling, Viognier, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Szürkerbarat und Tramini. A minimum of four of these varieties must be included and make up at least 50% of the blend. Individually each must represent a minimum of 5%.
The blend may also include up to 30% of fragrant Muscat varieties, such as Cserszegi Füszeres, Zefír, Irsai Oliver, Tramini and Muscat Ottonel.
What categories are produced?
Just as with the Bikavér, there are three categories defined: Classic, Superior and Grand Superior.
The classic Egri Csillag wines are made in an everyday style. They are usually focussed on fresh, crisp and fruity notes - light and easy to drink.
A minimum of 6 months ageing in oak is prescribed for Superior and Grand Superior Egri Csillag, making these wines fuller and spicier with a medium to long finish. The Grand Superior Egri Csillag wines show the most unique face of the wine region, since only single vineyard wines can be included in this category.
What do the wines taste like and how to pair them?
There are many possible directions winemakers can go with this wine. But generally it should be fruity and floral, but not too aromatic. No single variety should dominating, it is meant to be an expression of the essence of the fruit and the terroir.
Egri Csillag wines pair well with light dishes and more summary foods such as vegetables, fish, soups and salads. Of course, the more full-bodied Superior and Grand Superior wines pair well with heartier dishes such as grilled vegetables, cream soups and roast white meats too.
Our Egri Csillag wines for you to try:
St. Andrea Winery: Napbor
Category: Egri Csillag Classic
Fresh blossoms complemented by citrus notes and a pinch of minerality on the nose. A crispy, fresh, well drinkable, tasty reductive style white blend.
Grape Varietals: Olaszrizling, Sauvignon blanc, Hárslevelű, Leányka, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot blanc, Zengő | Vintage: 2023
Price: $ 25.50
Tóth Ferenc winery: Egri Csillag Superior
Category: Egri Csillag Superior
Its bright, golden color and smooth flow on the wall of the glass offer a promising sight. Aroma of lemon honey burst forth, followed by lighter peach and white floral notes. A tight, characterful, long-lasting wine with a really well-matched blending ratio.
Grape Varietals: Hárslevelü, Olaszrizling, Kiralyleanyka, Leanyka | Vintage: 2021
Price: $ 29.80
St. Andrea winery: Boldogságos
Category: Egri Csillag Grand Superior
Its aroma is rich, with a floral and citrus scent with white-fleshed peaches and grapefruits. Tight, complex white wine that beautifully expresses the place of production, decorated with elegant wooden barrel maturation notes.
Grape Varietals: Chardonnay, Furmint, Hárslevelü, Olaszrizling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc | Vintage: 2021
Price: $ 34.50