The festival is the largest gastronomic celebration in the wine region. It showcases the diversity of Villány red wines along with artisanal goods, vintage traditions, and family-friendly programs.
The Villány wine region has played a pioneering role in the revival of Hungarian winemaking and is one of the most developed wine-growing areas in Hungary. Some attribute its success to the skilled professionals accustomed to large-scale production, while others credit the perseverance of the Swabian settlers in the area.
In the Villány wine region, there are two main settlements, each with distinct production profiles: Villány is famous for its robust red wines and modern technology, whereas Siklós is somewhat overshadowed by its production of white wines. This southernmost wine region spans 2,100 hectares, where grapes thrive under favorable conditions created by a sub-Mediterranean climate. It is known as the warmest and sunniest wine region in Hungary, characterized by long, dry summers and an extended growing season. The soil is a mixture of loess, red clay, and brown forest soil, situated on top of the limestone of the Villány Mountains.
A dark ruby color, whole body, and a rich combination of aromas and flavors characterize the red wines of Villány. They have a high alcohol and tannin content, accounting for approximately 70-80% of the region's wine production. The traditional varieties include a few Kadarka and several Oporto (Portugieser), as well as Kékfrankos, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Zweigelt, and Pinot Noir. Some of the most popular Hungarian wines, as well as the well-liked Kékfrankos cuvées, are produced from these varieties. In contrast, the vibrant white wines of Siklós feature Olaszrizling, Traminer, and Ottonel Muscat.
The Villány Red Wine Festival will take place over three days, from Friday to Sunday, spanning the wine cellars to the Event Square. While the primary focus is on the red wines of Villány, the event truly showcases a variety of artistic endeavors. Visitors can enjoy live concerts, traditional presentations, a spectacular harvest parade, local culinary specialties, and a craft fair.
This event serves not only as a gathering place for wine enthusiasts but also as a cultural celebration. There is also a special magic to cellar visits, where you feel that the presentation is tailored to you, while at the same time gaining insight into the deeper world of the winemakers' vocation.
Visitors can enjoy traditional presentations, a spectacular vintage parade, concerts, and a craft fair, making this three-day wine adventure unforgettable for everyone.