Author: Dirk Chan
The wine regions of Eastern Europe offer a captivating journey through history, culture, and exceptional winemaking. While countries like Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, and Bulgaria may not be the first to come to mind when thinking of European wine, they are now producing a remarkable array of high-quality wines that are gaining recognition on the international stage. These nations, once at the heart of the Eastern Bloc, have a winemaking history dating back thousands of years.
The region’s winemaking traditions have been shaped by a blend of influences, including ancient Roman viticulture, medieval monastic practices, and modern winemaking techniques, resulting in a fascinating tapestry of wine styles, not to mention indigenous grape varietals not seen elsewhere in the world.
If and when you feel adventurous, give these wines a try!
Pictured from left to right:
2022 Jidvei Clasic Feteasca Regala (Romania) – $23.49
2021 Edoardo Miroglio Soli Pinot Noir (Thracian Valley, Bulgaria) – $22.99
2022 Heimann & Fiai SXRD Red (Szekszard, Hungary) – $25.49
2019 Strekov Frankovka (Slovakia) – $56.99
2020 Vinaria Purcari Freedom Blend Tribute Edition (Moldova) – $38.99
Other wines from Eastern Europe worthy of your consideration:
2023 Grand Tokaj Classic Selection Tokaji Furmint (Tokaj, Hungary) – $16.99
NV Chevalier de Dyonis Pinot Noir (Romania) – $16.99
NV Marani Alazani Valley Red (Georgia) – $19.99
2022 Tbilvino Saperavi Dry Red (Georgia) – $25.99
2019 Zsirai Winery Gavaller Red Blend (Villany, Hungary) – $25.99
2016 Royal Tokaji 5 Puttonyos Aszu (Hungary) -250mL – $36.49
Prost!