Kadarka [KAH-dahr-kah]
Red-wine grape that is Hungary’s most widely cultivated variety, although it’s thought to have originated in Albania. Kadarka is grown in most other eastern European countries as well, where it’s known variously as Cadarca, Gamza, and Skadarska. This grape produces full-bodied (see body), tannic red wines of medium to deep color. Kadarka wines can be very aromatic, with intriguing spicy characteristics. Along with Kékfrankos and Médoc Noir (Merlot), Kadarka is one of the varieties used in Hungary’s famous Egri Bikavér.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.