Bikaver means Bull's Blood and is a red blend dating back at least to the 18th century.  The name comes from the comments of the defeated Ottoman soldiers who saw the dark red wines the Hungarians were drinking.  Today, they are having a rebirth of sorts.  Always a blend, it must contain a minimum of 45% Kékfrankos and 5% Kadarka and no more than 40% of the grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot can be used.  This one is 47% Kekfrankos, 27% Merlot, 10% Kadarka, 8% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Sagrantino.  13% ABV.  Ruby in color with purple swirls, mostly opaque and bright.  The nose has nice cherry fruit with some pomegranate and peppery notes.  Medium bodied.  On the palate, black cherries, pomegranates with a bit of smoke and slight black pepper.  Nice acidity.  Good depth and finish.  This drinks well on its own and will work well with food.  Stews or other fatty meat dishes would be good.  Drink over the next five to eight years.  

Grade: 
B+
Score: 
89
Vintage: 
2015
Current Price: 
$21.00USD