fröccs

Fröccs is a Hungarian wine-based spritzer. It consists of wine diluted with carbonated water, typically served over ice in a tall glass. The wine-to-water ratio varies according to taste and setting; white wine is most common, but red or rosé versions exist, and some preparations use sparkling wine for extra fizz.

The drink is often described by the ratio of wine to soda, with terms such as kisfröccs and nagyfröccs indicating smaller or larger wine content. In practice, the mix is adjusted to taste, giving a range from light, refreshing drinks to versions with a stronger wine presence. The base can be white, red, or rosé wine, and regional preferences influence the preferred mix.

Fröccs originated in Hungary in the late 19th century, during the Austro-Hungarian period, and spread as a common terrace beverage. It remains a staple of summer drinking culture in Hungary, commonly found on cafés’ outdoor tables and social gatherings. The simplicity of its concept—diluting wine with carbonated water—has allowed it to endure as a flexible, everyday drink.

The drink has parallels in other parts of Europe, notably the spritz-style beverages of Italy, but fröccs is distinctly associated with Hungarian hospitality and terrace culture. Its enduring popularity reflects both beverage tradition and regional identity within Hungary.