History, Bubbles and Elegance: The True Face of Hungarian Sparkling Wine at Aranybástya

Sparkling wine is more than just a drink. It’s a feeling, a celebration, a moment captured in bubbles. While most people associate it with French champagne, Hungary has a rich sparkling wine tradition of its own – full of character, ambition and pride. Two names define this journey: Törley and Kreinbacher. Luckily, there’s a place in Budapest where these stories come to life in the glass, at the elegant Aranybástya Restaurant.

The Beginning: Törley and the Birth of a Classic

The Hungarian sparkling wine story begins in the late 19th century, with a visionary named József Törley. After learning the craft in France, he returned to Hungary and founded his own sparkling wine house in Budafok, just outside Budapest. At the time, few believed Hungary could produce world-class sparkling wine. Törley proved them wrong.

His wines quickly gained popularity across the Austro-Hungarian Empire and even beyond. In fact, for many Hungarians, the name Törley became synonymous with sparkling wine itself. Despite wars, regime changes, and economic ups and downs, the brand survived – and today, it’s still a symbol of tradition and quality.

A New Era: Kreinbacher and the Rise of Somló

Fast forward to the early 2000s, and a new chapter begins. József Kreinbacher, a modern entrepreneur with a passion for excellence, established his estate in the volcanic hills of Somló. His goal? To create Hungarian sparkling wine that could stand alongside the greats of Champagne.

Kreinbacher’s wines are made using the traditional method (méthode traditionnelle) with secondary fermentation taking place in the bottle. The result: elegant, mineral-rich sparkling wines that have won international acclaim, including multiple Decanter World Wine Awards. Whether you sip their Prestige Brut or Brut Nature, you’ll taste precision, depth, and true craftsmanship.

Where to Experience It All

A fine sparkling wine deserves a fine setting, and Aranybástya Restaurant, nestled at the foot of the Buda Castle, provides just that. With breathtaking views over Budapest, the atmosphere is as refined as the wines on the list.

Here, you’ll find a thoughtful selection of Hungary’s best sparkling wines, including Kreinbacher. And if you’re in the mood for something truly special, try the Philipponnat Champagne, Aranybástya is proud to serve as the first Hungarian ambassador of this renowned French house.

This is where heritage meets hospitality – in a glass, at a table, overlooking the city.

If you love sparkling wine and want to discover the Hungarian side of the story, Aranybástya is a must-visit. 👉 Explore the full drinks menu here

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