Vinalia x Tóth Ferenc, Leányka

Chicken paprikash, pumpkin stew, pogácsa, soft cheeses, stuffed cabbage leaves, lights pastas, risotto, afternoons on the patio, Sunday brunch

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Tóth Ferenc Winery is a testament to the unwavering passion and dedication of its founders, Tóth Ferenc (affectionately known as Uncle Feri) and his wife. Their journey from ordinary jobs to esteemed winegrowers began in the early 80s, culminating in the establishment of the Áfrika Vineyard. The winery gained recognition in the 90s with their successful Merlot and subsequently expanded operations by acquiring two old wine cellars. Feri stood at the forefront in the 2000s, advocating for the cultivation of rare grape varieties like Kadarka and Leányka in the Eger region. The next generation, represented by Ferenc’s daughter Katalin and son-in-law Zoltán, joined hands in 2005, helping to extend the winery’s cave system, modernize the tasting room, and increase vineyard holdings in Eger’s prime sites. They also played a pivotal role in integrating Egri Csillag, Eger’s flagship white wine, into appellation law. The winery continues its legacy of excellence, garnering awards like Eger Winemaker of the Year and Eger Grape Grower of the Year. For his service to the local wine industry and his efforts to preserve native Hungarian grape varieties, Ferenc was bestowed the illustrious Hungarian Order of Merit in 2017.