Three days after Hungary’s landmark April 12 election, Cider Chat MC Ria Windcaller arrived to find a country full of blossoms, possibility, and an emerging cider culture.
In this episode enjoy a Budapest to Pécs travelogue featuring audio snapshots from Hungary’s first Cider Salon, with makers from across Central Europe, Eastern Europe, and beyond.
Spring in Hungary was blooming in every direction when Ria arrived. Cherry blossoms overhead, apple trees beginning to flower, and beneath it all, something else quietly taking root, something sure to brighten the hearts of cider fans worldwide.
Yes, Hungary has cider!
Begin in Budapest
From the heights of Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side overlooking the Danube River to the streets of Pécs, you will feel a country in motion.
Upon arrival, Ria spent time with the makers behind Bright Cider, whose traditional method sparkling cider is helping define what modern Hungarian cider can become.
Their vision is clear:
- honor local fruit
- rediscover heritage apples
- innovate boldly
- build something uniquely Hungarian
A Country with Deep Apple Roots
One conversation stopped me in my tracks:
There was a time when Hungary produced more apple wine than grape wine.
That matters.
This isn’t cider appearing from nowhere.
This is history finding its voice again.
Voices from Hungary’s Cider Salon
At Hungary’s first cider salon, Ria met:
- new makers pouring their first releases
- orchardists planting cider apple varieties
- producers experimenting with wild fermentation
- cider lovers building community across borders
From Bosnia to Serbia, from Asturias to Herefordshire, cider gathered here.
And yes, Tom Oliver of Oliver’s Cider and Perry Company (UK) was there too.
Final Pour
What Ria witnessed in Hungary was possibility.
- A country reconnecting with apples.
- A new generation choosing fermentation.
- A cider culture beginning to rise.
In Hungary, without a doubt #ciderGoingUP!
Contact info for Abaliget Garden Project & Bright Cider
Abaliget Garden Project
Bright Cider
- Website: https://brightcider.hu/en/
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