Pécs: Best wineries, wine tastings and wines

What Makes the Pécs Wine Region Special?

History

The history of Pécs could fill entire books, as people have lived in this area since the Stone Age. Later, the Celts and then the Romans occupied the region, with the latter establishing the town of Sopianae at the foot of the Mecsek hills. Along with the town came the first vineyards, and wine from Pécs was traded far and wide due to the city’s location at the crossroads of important trade routes.

By the Middle Ages, in the 13th century, the city had gained its current name, and Hungary’s first university was founded there in 1367. Viticulture flourished, as evidenced by the hundreds of vineyard owners recorded in Pécs and surrounding villages. At this time, the dominant wine in the region was red, made primarily from Kadarka grapes. Wine played such a significant role in the city's life that the first coat of arms of Pécs, created in 1694, included a grapevine.

The 19th century saw significant changes in the Pécs wine region. Traditional methods of grape growing were replaced by more modern techniques, and wine from the Mecsek hills found success in foreign markets. The city's economy was heavily based on wine trading and sparkling wine production. The Pécsi Pezsgőgyár (Pécs Sparkling Wine Factory), founded by Lőrinc Littke, still exists today and has maintained its reputation over the years.

In the 20th century, the focus shifted from red to white grapes, with Cirfandli becoming the flagship variety of the Pécs wine region. In the second half of the century, the Pécs wine region separated from the Villány wine region, and in 1997, several new villages were officially added to it.

Natural Characteristics

Pécs is often described as Hungary’s only Mediterranean-style city, and this is true. The city enjoys even warmer temperatures than Villány, thanks to the protective influence of the Mecsek hills. Pécs receives ample sunshine and has mild winters, making for an exceptionally long growing season.

The Pécs wine region covers a large area of about 7,000 hectares, though only 660 hectares are currently planted with vines. The region is divided into three subzones: the Pécs subzone, which includes Pécs, Hosszúhetény, and Pécsvárad; the Szigetvár subzone, which covers Szigetvár, Mozsgó, and Kispeterd; and the Versend subzone, which includes villages such as Bóly, Dunaszekcső, and Mohács.

Planted Grape Varieties

White Grape Varieties:

• Chardonnay
• Cirfandli
• Furmint
• Hárslevelű
• Irsai Olivér
• Olaszrizling
• Sárgamuskotály (Yellow Muscat)
• Zöldveltelini

Red Grape Varieties:

• Cabernet Franc
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Kékfrankos
• Merlot

What Wineries Can You Find in the Region?

Experiences Await You

No visit to Pécs is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks, such as the Early Christian Necropolis, the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, Gázi Kászim Pasha’s Mosque, and the breathtaking views from the TV tower. The Zsolnay Quarter offers an engaging cultural experience, and the Kodály Center hosts world-class concerts.

Pécs is a truly international city, with Hungarians, Germans, Swabians, Croatians, and other ethnic groups having lived together here for centuries. This cultural melting pot is reflected in its unique gastronomy. The city center is home to charming restaurants where you can sample the best of Hungarian cuisine, paired with excellent local wines.

Beyond Pécs, the wine region offers more attractions. Szigetvár played an important role in Hungary’s history, and its castle is still standing and open to visitors. If relaxation is on your mind, head to the Szigetvár Thermal and Spa. In Mohács, you can visit the National Memorial Site dedicated to the famous Battle of 1526.

The region is also home to several wine festivals, including the Portugieser Du Monde Tasting Festival, the European Wine Song Festival in September, and the Harvest and Wine Festival in Mohács. In October, Hosszúhetény hosts the Nationalities’ Taste Festival, while Mecseknádasd is home to the Wine Wanderings event. During winter, Pécs' stunning main square is transformed into a cozy wine hub during the Advent Wine Salon, where you can sip on mulled wine.

Famous Wineries

• Belward Winery
• Lisicza Winery
• Planina Borház
• University of Pécs Viticulture and Oenology Research Institute
• Radó Cellar
• Schunk Cellar
• Somogyi Tibor Winery
• Wekler Cellar

The unique atmosphere, rich history, and exceptional wine culture of Pécs will surely captivate you. Reserve your spot at the best wine tastings in Pécs today!