Eastern European Wine

Eastern European wine brings together some of the oldest and most distinctive wine cultures in the world, from Georgia and Hungary to the Balkans, Slovenia and beyond. The wines here focus on freshness, texture and regional identity, with indigenous grapes, volcanic soils and low-intervention winemaking playing a central role.

Explore More In Our Collection
Georgian Wine Orange Wine Natural & Minimal Intervention Wine in Edinburgh White Wine Red Wine Vegan Wine World Wine Sicilian Wine Alpine Wine Petillant Naturel & Col Fondo Loire Valley Domaine Josmeyer Alsace

Eastern Europe is home to some of the oldest and most exciting wine cultures in the world, with traditions stretching from Georgia and the Balkans to Hungary, Slovenia, Romania and beyond. Alongside indigenous grapes such as Furmint, Saperavi, Mavrud and Blaufränkisch, the region has become increasingly recognised for mineral whites, vibrant reds, orange wine and low-intervention winemaking rooted in local tradition rather than modern trends.

Many producers continue to work organically, using native yeast fermentation, extended skin contact and minimal cellar manipulation as part of long-established regional practices. In places such as Georgia, qvevri winemaking and skin-contact fermentation have existed for centuries, while volcanic vineyard regions in Hungary and the Balkans continue to produce wines with striking acidity, texture and mineral character.

Our range focuses on growers producing wines with freshness, individuality and strong regional expression, from volcanic Hungarian whites and savoury Balkan reds to Georgian amber wine and naturally expressive bottles from Slovenia and Croatia. Expect orchard fruit, citrus, spice, tannin, saline minerality and wines that often sit somewhere between classic European structure and the more experimental side of natural wine.

Eastern Europe has become especially important for drinkers looking beyond more established Western European regions, offering wines with distinct grape varieties, lower-intervention approaches and remarkable value. Whether you're exploring Eastern European wine for the first time or searching for more unusual terroir-driven bottles, this remains one of the most rewarding and fast-evolving areas in modern wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Eastern European wine?

Eastern European wine refers to wines produced across countries such as Georgia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Croatia, Moldova and surrounding regions, many of which have ancient winemaking traditions.

What makes Eastern European wine special?

Eastern European wines are known for their long winemaking history, unique indigenous grape varieties and a strong focus on traditional and low-intervention methods in many modern producers.

Is Eastern Europe an old wine region?

Yes. Wine has been made in parts of Eastern Europe for thousands of years, with countries like Georgia often cited as some of the earliest origins of winemaking in the world.

What grapes are common in Eastern European wine?

Common grapes include Saperavi (Georgia), Furmint (Hungary), Kékfrankos (Austria/Hungary regionally), Fetească Neagră (Romania) and many other indigenous varieties rarely found outside the region.

What do Eastern European wines taste like?

They can range widely, but often show bright acidity, fresh fruit character and earthy or herbal complexity, with reds from structured and spicy to juicy and vibrant, and whites often crisp and aromatic.

Are Eastern European wines good value?

Yes. Many Eastern European wines offer excellent quality for price, often delivering distinctive character and complexity at more accessible price points than more established Western European regions.

What are the main wine styles from Eastern Europe?

Key styles include structured reds (like Saperavi), aromatic whites, mineral-driven dry wines, traditional sweet wines such as Tokaji, and emerging natural or amphora-aged wines.

Is Eastern European wine natural or traditional?

Both exist. Some producers focus on traditional methods passed down for centuries, while others specialise in modern low-intervention and organic winemaking approaches.

Why are Eastern European wines becoming popular again?

They are gaining attention due to renewed interest in indigenous grapes, small artisan producers, and a growing global demand for authentic, less commercial wine styles.

What food pairs well with Eastern European wine?

These wines pair well with grilled meats, stews, cured meats, roasted vegetables and hearty regional dishes due to their structure and freshness.