A dynamic group of up-and-coming winemakers, many of them changing to organic practices, has chosen to make this lovely village their home. Surrounded by vineyards and forested hills, most wineries are based in the traditional stone houses and are open by appointment or at weekends.

For centuries Erdőbénye has been renowned for its woodworkers, including the coopers whose handcrafted barrels, which are made from carefully seasoned oak from the surrounding Zemplén hills, are sought after around Hungary and further afield. The coopers even have their own dance which is a sight to behold, and a museum packed with ancient tools, some of which were fashioned by the owner of the house. Discover carvings and statues too, dotted around as bus shelters, memorial parks, etc. that adorn the village. And the Memorial Park has a great collection of old apple varieties that fruit well into autumn.

Highlights

Events

Don’t miss probably the best festival in the Tokaj Wine Region, the festival in the gardens of Erdőbénye, Wine, Shine…Bénye delights with music, exhibitions, bike and walking tours, food and, of course, wines in the winemakers’ gardens!

The Bor, Mámor…Bénye association also organises smaller events during the year with main ones in spring and around Halloween.

Eating and drinking

Hungry Grape – the funky wine bar of the region has a selection of the best wines from Erdőbénye and the region. Originally renovated by talented winemaker Attila Hommona, the space is now exquisitely cared for by designer and flavour appreciator/creator/collector/curator, event organiser of HelloBénye Sylvia.

Beautiful wineries and gardens include

Fekete Kuria – with charismatic and passionate owner/winemaker Rémusz Dávid and his summer outdoor bistro restaurant and oven-baked pizzaria.

Karádi-Berger – great wines in a superb setting, one of the greenest around. Perfect for tasting in the garden, under the shade of trees while children enjoy the sandpit. Also a couple of well-furnished rooms with kitchen.

Magita Hotel and Restuarant – traditional Hungarian food. Rooms with good facilities.

Things to do and see

Shepherds (and their sheep!) have long appreciated the rich, herb-filled grassland around the village, and this is still true today at the Ligeti Juhászat as you climb out of the basin, into the forests towards the Aranyosi-völgy (Golden Valley).

Prefer the shade of hills and valleys? A spring bubbling from the rocks, the chance to find obsidian, opals, even gold? Wildcats, deer, even wild boar. The stunning Aranyosi-völgy, with its cool, forest air, can be a wonderful respite in the heat of summer.

See fossils, rocks and hand-drawn paintings of local flora in the renovaated house in the centre of town, the Szepsi Laczkó Máté House.

Visit a cooper, the Coopers’ and Smiths’ Museums.