The Mátra wine region is the neighbour of the more famous Eger in Northern Hungary and it’s somewhat similar in soils and climate. On the other hand it’s rather known for white wines, not reds, although long time ago it was mostly planted with kadarka, which is hard to find there these days. I know only two producers who bottle that variety, one of them is Anna Barta in Nagygombos.

She makes an affordable wine from the variety and I found it very interesting. Most kadarka plantings can be found in Szekszárd, 200 kms to the south from there, but those are completely different from Anna’s. It rather reminds me to some traditional Eger reds raised in big oak barrels, which totally makes sense.

A bit darker and fuller than most kadarka, ABV is 13,5%. Tobacco notes, development on the nose, alongside some red fruits and aloe vera greenness. It’s on the lighter side, yet it has structure – built on acidity rather than tannins. Sweedish licorice adds a twist on the palate. A savoury wine with lots of personality. 85-86 points, drink now.