The Tokaji wine, originating from the historic Tokaj region in northeastern Hungary, holds a distinguished status as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious sweet wines, renowned for its rich history and unique production methods.
The viticulture in the Tokaj region dates back to at least the 12th century, and by the late 1200s, there were written records of vineyards in Tokaj, indicating an established winemaking tradition. The golden age of Tokaji wine commenced in the 16th century, with the first references to the famous “aszú” wine, made from noble rot-affected grapes, appearing in this period. This term refers to the process of selecting and drying grapes affected by Botrytis cinerea, which concentrates their sugars.
Tokaji wines – world’s oldest and most prestigious sweet wines are distinct due to the use of botrytized grapes, which lend the wine its signature sweetness and complex flavors. The sweetness level of Tokaji aszú is traditionally measured in puttonyos, ranging from 3 to 6, with higher numbers indicating sweeter wines. Aszú Eszencia, the sweetest and rarest, surpasses even this scale. The volcanic soil and unique microclimate of the region contribute to the exceptional character of Tokaji wines.
Tokaji aszú wine gained significant recognition and was highly sought after by European royalty and nobility. It became known as the “Wine of Kings, King of Wines”, a phrase attributed to King Louis XIV of France. The Tokaj region was also one of the first in the world to have its vineyards classified and regulated, establishing a system of quality control that preceded the French appellation system by over a century. This period solidified Tokaji wine’s status as a premier luxury wine.
Tokaj-Hegyalja Harvest Festival
The Tokaj-Hegyalja Harvest Festival is a vibrant and culturally rich event celebrating the grape harvest in the Tokaj region of Hungary. Held in early October, this festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the traditions, flavors, and community spirit of this renowned wine-producing area. The festivities commence with a colorful parade featuring local winemakers, folk dancers, musicians, and participants dressed in traditional Hungarian costumes. Processions often include horse-drawn carriages, decorated floats, and displays of freshly harvested grapes.
Attendees have the chance to sample a wide range of Tokaji wines, including the famous Tokaji aszú, dry Furmint, and other regional specialties. Tastings are hosted by numerous local wineries, wine cellars, and stands throughout the festival area. Live music is integral to the festival, with performances by local folk bands, traditional dance groups, and contemporary artists. Visitors can also enjoy and participate in traditional Hungarian folk dances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
A variety of food stalls offer traditional Hungarian dishes, such as goulash, stuffed cabbage, and chimney cakes (kürtőskalács). Many food vendors provide dishes specifically paired with local wines, enhancing the tasting experience. The festival also includes a market where local artisans showcase and sell handmade crafts, pottery, embroidery, and other traditional items. Visitors can purchase local honey, jams, and other regional products to take home.
Guided tours of historic sites in the Tokaj region, including ancient wine cellars and castles, are often available during the festival. Some events include workshops on winemaking, grape cultivation, and the history of Tokaji wine. The festival is family-friendly, with activities designed for children, including games, crafts, and storytelling sessions. Kids can learn about winemaking through interactive exhibits and grape stomping activities.
Competitions and awards for the best wines of the festival highlight the quality and diversity of Tokaji wines. Evening concerts and light shows add to the festive ambiance, making the event enjoyable into the night.
The Tokaj-Hegyalja Harvest Festival is a celebration of the region’s rich winemaking heritage and community spirit, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the traditions, flavors, and vibrant culture of Tokaj. It is a must-visit event for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic Hungarian experience.
For travel from Budapest to Tokaj, we offer the option of booking a private transfer.
Customize your travel schedule to suit your needs without being bound by public transport timetables.
With a private transfer, travelers have the freedom to leave at their preferred time, making it easier to plan their itinerary and avoid any unnecessary wait times. Additionally, the door-to-door service provided ensures maximum convenience, eliminating the need for travelers to navigate complicated public transportation systems or hail a taxi on arrival.
Pre-booking your transfer is highly recommended, as it guarantees availability and ensures a stress-free journey from Budapest to Tokaj. This means that travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery while their driver takes care of the rest.
Overall, booking a private transfer from Budapest to Tokaj is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, convenient, and hassle-free way to travel.
We take pride in providing comprehensive solutions for your travel needs. Our vehicles are well-maintained, clean, and equipped with modern amenities to ensure that you have a comfortable journey. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride, while we take care of your transportation needs.
Our company offers services covering all categories of vehicles
We have a diverse fleet of vehicles and professional drivers ready to ensure your journey is safe, comfortable, and convenient.
Standard cars (Skoda Octavia),
Comfort cars (Skoda SuperB)
Business cars (Mercedes-Benz E class)
Luxury Cars (Mercedes-Benz S class)
For small groups and family outings
Standard Vans (Opel Vivaro, Ford Transit, Renault Trafic)
Business Vans (Mercedes Vito, Mercedes V class)
We offer a variety of comfortable tour buses for groups of travelers. These modern and spacious buses are equipped with plush seats, panoramic windows, and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable journey. The bus will pick you up from a location in Budapest and return you at the end of the tour, making your travel experience hassle-free and convenient.
Comfort and Convenience: Relax and enjoy the sights in our modern, air-conditioned tour buses equipped with comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and onboard amenities for a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.
Our tour buses are readily available to cater to your groups. With our top-notch fleet and experienced drivers, we ensure a comfortable and memorable journey for your clients. Whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, soaking in the vibrant culture, or simply enjoying the scenic views, our buses are equipped to meet all your group travel needs.
Our team is committed to providing exceptional service, and customer satisfaction is our top priority. We ensure that every aspect of the tour exceeds expectations, from booking to disembarkation.
Partner with us and take advantage of our competitive partner rates to maximize your profitability.
Our bus fleet:
Minibus Mercedes Sprinter 15 pax
Minibus Mercedes Sprinter 22 pax
Bus Volvo 9500 49 pax
Bus Volvo 9700 49 pax
Bus Mercedes Tourismo 49 pax
Bus Mercedes Tourismo 52 pax
Bus MAN 52 pax
Bus MAN 57 pax
Bus Setra 55 pax
Bus Scania 55 pax
Bus TemSA 55 pax
Contact Us
+36303510372