2020 Sebestyen Mozaik Bikaver, Szekszárd, Hungary

ABOUT THE WINE

Bikavér—often called “Bull’s Blood”—is Hungary’s most famous red blend, and in Szekszárd it takes on a distinct elegance compared to the more robust styles of Eger. The Mozaik is crafted primarily from Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), the backbone of the blend, supported by Kadarka for spice and finesse, and international varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah to add depth and structure.

The 2020 vintage was balanced and favorable, yielding ripe, healthy grapes with excellent concentration. Fruit is sourced from Sebestyén’s sustainably farmed vineyards on loess and clay-limestone soils, which bring both richness and freshness to the blend. Grapes are hand-harvested, fermented with native yeasts, and aged for 12–14 months in a combination of stainless steel and oak barrels, allowing for integration of flavor and texture without heavy oak influence.

The wine shows a mosaic (mozaik) of aromas and flavors—bright red fruits from Kékfrankos, gentle spice and lift from Kadarka, and darker tones and structure from the Bordeaux varieties. It balances accessibility with complexity, making it both food-friendly and cellar-worthy for the next 5–7 years.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Sebestyén Pince (Sebestyén Winery) is a family estate in Szekszárd, run by siblings Csaba and Csilla Sebestyén. Since the early 2000s, they have been at the forefront of revitalizing Bikavér in Szekszárd, championing a more refined, terroir-driven expression of the style.

The estate focuses on Kékfrankos and Kadarka as the cornerstones of their red wines, seeing these native grapes as key to Szekszárd’s identity. Farming is sustainable, with close attention to soil health and biodiversity, and the cellar philosophy is minimal intervention, aiming for clarity and balance over power.

The Mozaik Bikavér exemplifies the Sebestyéns’ approach: a thoughtful blend that honors tradition while offering a modern, polished interpretation of Hungary’s most famous red wine. It is a benchmark example of the elegance and harmony that Szekszárd can bring to Bikavér.