Kékbakator

The search for the historic voices of the Hungarian wine landscape inevitably leads to Kékbakator. This ancient, functionally female grape variety, which relies on the proximity of other varieties in the vineyard for pollination, brings its very own, delicate dynamics to the glass. On the volcanic northern shore of Lake Balaton, it is experiencing a gentle renaissance. Kékbakator is characterised by a clear, vibrant acidity, fine-grained tannins and a subtle, red-fruited spice. How harmoniously this rare variety integrates into a fluid, terroir-driven overall picture is demonstrated by the Bencze Birtók estate. In their light, vibrant ‘Autochthon Red’, Kékbakator forms a congenial partnership with Blaufränkisch and Hajnos kék; the result is a characterful wine that pairs outstandingly with air-dried ham or gently spiced vegetable dishes.