A temporary exhibition presents the centuries-old history, material heritage and living traditions of grape growing and winemaking in Eger.
Eger Wine Tasting – The Heritage of Viticulture
Date: 2 October 2026 – 2 May 2027
Venue: István Dobó Castle Museum, Dobó Bastion, Eger, Vár köz 1.
Alongside its heroic history, Eger has also become famous for its wine, and especially for the distinctive taste and character of Egri Bikavér. What is the secret behind this enduring success and consistently high quality? Our exhibition explores the answer from several perspectives.
Drawing on objects, documents, photographs and films from the collections of the István Dobó Castle Museum, this temporary exhibition presents the history of traditional grape growing and winemaking in Eger, preserved over the centuries, as well as its role in the city’s economy. Visitors can discover the origins and success story of Egri Bikavér, the relationship between geology and wine, the tools and processes of viticulture, local growing areas and grape varieties, the traditions of the Eger harvest, the distinctive features of the city’s cellar system and wine trade, the symbolism of grapes, and the representation of Eger wine in literature. The exhibition also introduces 21st-century Egri Bikavér and Egri Csillag, the communal experience of wine festivals, and finally, through a short film connecting the past with the present, the unique values created by generations of local grape growers and winemakers through their dedication to vines and wine.
Animated short films bring to life the legend of Bikavér, scenes from grape growing and the harvest in Eger, and the adventurous story of Géza Gárdonyi and wine.
One of the exhibition’s special features is an augmented reality (AR) experience: by scanning QR codes, the images on the walls come to life, allowing visitors to hear the thoughts of Jenő Grőber, Antal Rupert and an Eger cellar owner. A walk-around 3D scene recreating Antal Rupert’s cooper’s workshop also appears.
Archive films, traditional Eger wine songs and Wordwall games, “Did you know?” questions, aroma and rock samples, as well as a touchable carved barrel head provide an engaging introduction to some of the most fascinating aspects of Eger’s grape-growing and wine culture.
The people of Eger remain closely connected to grapes and wine not only through the past, but also in the present. Eger’s wine festivals have become living traditions, and visitors are warmly invited to experience them. This exhibition offers an introductory “tasting” of the traditions and culture behind the excellent wines served at these events.
The content of this page has been compiled partly automatically, so despite our best efforts, inaccuracies may occur. The information provided is for guidance only and is subject to change. Please contact the event organiser for the latest details.