Nestled in the undulating hills of the UNESCO-protected Tokaj wine region in Hungary, the Sauska Tokaj winery emerges as a breathtaking architectural landmark. Designed by BORD Architectural Studio, this stunning contemporary winery appears to float ethereally above the historic vineyards, a testament to a design philosophy that seeks to complement rather than compete with its majestic surroundings. The project is more than a functional facility for winemaking; it is a bold statement that elevates the region’s prestige as a destination for wine tourism and design aficionados alike.
The architectural vision for the winery was driven by a mission to showcase the dynamic energy and diversity of Tokaj wines, particularly its fresh dry whites and sparkling varieties. The site, an elevated plot on the southern slopes of Padi Hill amidst the region’s most significant settlements, presented a unique challenge and inspiration. Architect Péter Bordás articulated a philosophy of the “untouched-untouchable,” aiming to create a structure that feels physically independent of its environment. This led to the striking concept of a floating winery, a form that seems to hover weightlessly above the landscape, an idea first humorously modelled with a beanbag to bring the hill to life.
The resulting structure is defined by two dramatic, intersecting lens-shaped volumes, each 36 meters wide. These elegant, curved forms house the visitor-focused areas—a restaurant and bar—and are freely accessible, offering panoramic vistas of the precious vineyards below. The illusion of levitation is achieved through their support by slender steel columns and is magnified by the way sunlight glides across their undersides. In a masterful stroke of planning, all functional areas requiring stable temperatures, including the underground fermentation halls and storage, are nestled within the hill itself. This subterranean level features dramatic, circular halls where stainless steel tanks are arranged concentrically around a central wooden barrel aging area, marrying high-tech winemaking with tradition.
The arrival experience is carefully choreographed to heighten the sensory impact. The entrance is discreetly integrated into the slope, preserving the sculptural form’s clean lines. A wide pathway from the parking area offers breathtaking previews of the landscape before guiding guests into an intimate lobby. A skylit corridor then leads to the main visitor spaces and the panoramic terrace. Inside the lens-shaped volumes, the high, curved ceilings designed by Tihany Design narrow towards the view, consciously drawing the eye outward to the unfolding scenery. The material palette of natural wood, local limestone cladding, and steel accents reflects the essence of the vineyard, creating a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
The technological background of the operation is equally impressive. The pressing, bottling, and labelling areas are arranged in a efficient rectangular layout underground, connected to the fermentation spaces. A tunnel running along the building’s longitudinal axis facilitates the seamless arrival of grapes and shipment of finished wine, while also housing essential mechanical equipment. This contrast between the cold, metallic aesthetic of the cellar and the warm, vibrant visitor spaces above underscores the building’s dual identity as both a high-performance production facility and a destination for wine tourism.
The Sauska Tokaj winery stands as a powerful symbol of the new Tokaj, honouring its rich heritage while boldly embracing modernity. By fusing cutting-edge design with traditional winemaking, BORD Architectural Studio has created not just a winery, but an unforgettable experience that celebrates the evolving spirit of this world-renowned region.