The 1552 Siege of Eger became an emblem of Hungarian heroism when the castle was
successfully defended against the united forces of the two greatest Ottoman troops. When
accounted for the defeat of their 20-fold army, the Ottoman leaders claimed the Hungarians –
including women – fought with such an unparalleled courage they must have had drank the bull’s
blood. This gave the name to the region’s emblematic red blend, Egri Bikavér (bull’s blood of Eger).
Every bottle is embossed with “1552 Eger”.
This wine is the truest representation of the legendary Egri Bikavér. Cool climate, volcanic soil
with the combination of the best sites in Eger give rise to the fresh, spicy, ripe, vibrant fruits with a
touch of leafiness from firm but well integrated, round tannins. Let it explode untamed out of a
slightly chilled bottle.
The founder of the winery, Tibor Gál was asked by none other than Ludovico Antinori himself to join
Ornellaia in 1989 where he soon became the chief winemaker. One of his greatest achievements
was the 1998 Ornellaia which was voted best wine in the world by Wine Spectator in 2001.
Meanwhile Marchese Incisa della Rocchetta, the man behind Sassicaia, partnered with Gál and
together they founded their winery in Eger.
Tibor Gál jnr. is in charge today with no less talent. His
Bikavér blends are the most honest representations of
the volcanic terroir of Eger. Vibrancy, elegance and
finesse define the identity of all his wines. I am sure his
dad would have been extremely proud to have seen his
son become the pioneer of a new era of Egri Bikavér.
