2015 Sebestyén Szekszárdi Bikavér, Hungary, Szekszárd, Wine Review
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 opaq
2017 Egervin Eger Egri Bikavér Bulls Blood, Hungary, Wine Review
Bull's blood wines are blends, traditionally from northern Hungary. The name comes from the dubious story that says after the locals fought off the Ottoman's, the Ottomans said the people there were drinking dark red wine made from bull's blood which gave them strength. This made from the "500 year old" recipe as a blend of Kekfrankos, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zweigelt. It drank nicely especially given its $12 price tag. Purple in color, with ruby swirls, mostly opaque and bright. The nose is dusty with plums and black cherries. Medium bodied. On the palate, this has tart che