Yesterday the New York Times published its “53 Places to Go in 2008” list and named Tokaj as number 52. Tokaj, Hungary’s most famed wine region, also happens to be my favorite part of the country. Not only does it turn out great white wines, but I think it of one of the most beautiful areas of Hungary. Its centuries old stone wine cellars are covered in black “noble mold” and some stretch back several kilometers, forming virtual streets and mazes under the ground. Tokaj joins other destinations like Laos (number 1) and Libya (number 10) and the Northwest Passage (number 35) and Bogota (number 21). Prague is also on there at number 14.
The Times writes:
Backpacking wine tours? The Hungarian wine region of Tokaj is regaining its reputation for quality whites, especially wheat-colored dessert wines made from furmint grapes. The region’s winemaking was reborn after the fall of Communism. The Grof Degenfeld, housed in an old castle, even has a plush hotel that offers two-day packages starting at 191 euros, or $283 at $1.50 to the euro.
But backpacking wine tours? Since when do backpackers book 2 day packages at plush hotels for $283? The Grof Degenfeld hotel and winery are lovely and elegant, by the way, and so is the more affordable Grof Degenfeld panzió in the center of Tokaj. But even there you’re not likely to see any backpacking wine drinkers.
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