Sopron (Hungary)

Discover Sopron: Hungary’s Hidden Wine Gem

Nestled in western Hungary near the Austrian border, Sopron beckons wine lovers with its rich viticultural heritage. This charming city, known for its red wines, especially Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), offers a unique blend of Hungarian and Austrian influences.

Towns and Villages

Sopron’s picturesque Old Town is the heart of the region. Its medieval streets and well-preserved architecture make it a must-visit destination. Nearby villages like Fertőrákos and Balf add rural charm to your wine journey.

Sopron: Medieval charm with a vibrant wine scene
Fertőrákos: Known for its stone quarry and lake views
Balf: A spa town with excellent wineries

Wine Producers

Sopron boasts a diverse range of wineries, from small family-run estates to larger operations. Many offer tastings and cellar tours, providing an intimate look at local winemaking traditions.

Lővér Pince: Award-winning Kékfrankos and innovative blends
Pfneiszl Bio Borászat: Organic wines with Austrian influence
Taschner Bor- és Pezsgőház: Renowned for sparkling wines

Accommodations

Sopron offers a range of lodging options, from charming boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses. Many accommodations are within walking distance of wineries and the Old Town.

Hotel Sopron: Modern comfort with vineyard views
Winery Hotel Taschner: Stay among the vines
Pannonia Hotel: Historic elegance in the city center

Dining

Sopron’s culinary scene perfectly complements its wines. Local restaurants serve traditional Hungarian dishes alongside international cuisine, often featuring wine pairings.

Erhardt Étterem: Fine dining with an extensive wine list
Jégverem Fogadó: Rustic charm and hearty local fare
Vincellér Étterem: Wine-focused menu in a cozy setting

Wine Shops & Bars

Sopron offers a variety of wine shops and bars where you can sample local wines. Many double as tasting rooms, providing in-depth knowledge about regional vintages.

Borárium: Extensive selection of Sopron wines with expert staff
Harrer Csokoládéműhely és Cukrászda: Unique wine and chocolate pairings
Nedű Borbolt: Cozy wine bar featuring small-batch producers

Other Shops

While wine takes center stage, Sopron also boasts charming boutiques and specialty stores. Look for local handicrafts and gourmet products.

Központi Piac: Local market for fresh produce and artisanal goods
Cédrus Könyvesbolt: Bookstore with a section on regional wine literature
Harmónia Reformház: Health food store with organic local products

Attractions

Beyond wine, Sopron offers a rich cultural experience. The city’s historical landmarks provide context to its winemaking tradition.

Fire Tower: Iconic symbol of Sopron with panoramic views
Storno House: Museum showcasing local history and art
Fabricius House: Wine cellar museum in a 14th-century building

Events

Sopron’s calendar is filled with wine-related events. These festivals offer opportunities to taste local wines and immerse in regional culture.

Sopron Wine Festival (June): Showcases local wineries and cuisine
VOLT Festival (June/July): Music festival with a dedicated wine area
Kékfrankos Summer (August): Celebration of the region’s signature grape

Appellations

Sopron’s wine region is recognized for its unique terroir. The area’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status ensures quality and authenticity.

Sopron PDO: Covers red wines, particularly Kékfrankos
Fertő PDO: Includes wines from the Lake Fertő (Neusiedl) area
Pannonhalma PDO: Nearby region known for white wines

Grape Varieties

Sopron’s wine region is known for its red wines, particularly Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch). This grape variety thrives in the area’s cool climate and produces elegant, spicy reds.

Other grape varieties cultivated in Sopron include:

Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Zweigelt
Pinot Noir
Zöld Veltelini (Grüner Veltliner)

Main Wine Styles

Sopron’s wines are characterized by their high acidity and elegant structure. The region’s signature styles include:

Full-bodied, spicy Kékfrankos reds
Fruity and light-bodied Zweigelt
Aromatic white wines from Zöld Veltelini
Bordeaux-style blends using Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

Food Specialties

Sopron’s culinary scene complements its wines perfectly. Local specialties include:

Soproni kékfrankos gulyás: A hearty goulash made with Kékfrankos wine
Soproni ponty: Carp prepared in a paprika-based sauce
Gesztenyepüré: A sweet chestnut purée, often served with whipped cream

Drives & Walks

Explore Sopron’s wine country through scenic drives and walks:

Sopron Wine Road: A 50km route connecting local wineries and vineyards
Lővérek Nature Trail: A 10km hiking path through forested hills and vineyards
Fertő-Hanság National Park: Offers bike routes and walking trails near Lake Neusiedl

Itineraries

Weekend Wine Getaway

Day 1: Explore Sopron’s Old Town, visit the Fire Tower, and enjoy a wine tasting at Taschner Wine & Champagne House.

Day 2: Take a drive along the Sopron Wine Road, stopping at wineries like Weninger and Luka Winery for tastings and vineyard tours.

Week-long Wine and Culture Tour

Extend your stay to include visits to nearby attractions like Fertőrákos Quarry, Eszterháza Palace, and a day trip to Vienna, just an hour’s drive away.

Getting There & Around

Sopron is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. The nearest airport is Vienna International Airport, about 80 km away.

By car: Take the A4 motorway from Vienna or M85 from Budapest
By train: Direct connections from Vienna and Budapest to Sopron station
Local transport: Rent a bike or use local buses to explore vineyards

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Sopron is during the grape harvest season (September to October). Spring and early summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.