Wednesday, 23nd March, 15:00-16:00
Venue: „C” Congress Centre, Session Room F7
Bikavér is the most historic, famous, and at times infamous, red blend of Hungary. Typical in the northern region of Eger and the southern region of Szekszárd. The masterclass will provide a brief summary of the history of Bikavér before exploring how the style has evolved in the two regions and how they have developed two distinct identities. Finally, it will take a look at how the next generation and new regulations are moving this wine style into the future.
Elizabeth Gabay MW has worked in wine since 1986(!), representing vineyards in southern France, Italy and Burgundy in the UK market. She first visited Hungary – Tokaj – in 1993. Ms. Gabay became a Master of Wine in 1998 and moved to France in 2002 increasing her focus on writing, teaching and consulting. Since 2008, she has worked increasingly with the wines of Hungary, visiting several times a year, and writing and lecturing on the wines of Hungary.
Csilla Sebestyén comes from a Hungarian winemaking family based in the south of Hungary. Her role is to create the style of the family’s wines and represent them. Prior to that, she worked as a sommelier for 6 years at the 2 Michelin starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, based within the eponymous Gleneagles Hotel. During this time she qualified at WSET Diploma level and also the unique ‘Fine and Rare Wine Specialist Course’. She is an active member of her region’s marketing team.
Tibor Gál is the second generation owner and chief winemaker of the Gal Tibor Winery in Eger wine region. Mr. Gál graduated from the Hungarian Agricultural University as a winemaker, and he also spent one semester at the South African Stellenbosch University’s faculty of winemaking. Before starting his career in the family winery he worked for shorter stints in Tuscany, New-Zealand and South Africa. His aim is to revitalize local traditions and to craft a contemporary Bikavér based on local varieties that with time may gain worldwide recognition.