Learning and Experiences in the University Vineyard

Eszterházy Károly Catholic University – September 2026

Fourth-grade pupils from Szent Imre Catholic Primary School visited the Experimental Vineyards and Winery of Eszterházy Károly Catholic University on 10 September for a special “Harvest Experience”. In addition to introducing the children to the basic concepts related to grape harvesting and guiding them through the harvest, the University’s experts presented the various stages of grape processing. This autumn, the University will once again welcome several hundred kindergarten and primary school children as part of the programme series

During the Harvest Experience, which was open to the press, the children learned about the most important aspects of grape harvesting in a playful and engaging way, with particular emphasis on the basic rules of safe working practices. They were also introduced to key terms related to grape cultivation, learning what a grapevine, cane and peduncle are, as well as how to properly cut a ripe bunch of grapes from the vine.

The children then followed the tractor carrying crates filled with the freshly harvested grapes all the way to the processing facility, where they gained an insight into the grape-processing process. First, they observed the destemming of the grapes, followed by a demonstration of the pressing process. The programme would not have been complete without tasting the freshly pressed and delicious grape must, which the participants enjoyed together with the traditional Hungarian snack zsíros kenyér – bread topped with lard.

The Harvest Experience therefore offered the children not only an entertaining and educational programme, but also an opportunity to discover through first-hand experience the journey of grapes from the vine to the finished must.

This year, the event was complemented by a special addition: the EU-GIFT University Alliance joined the University’s initiative and awarded the young participants an “Certified Grape Harvester” diploma. By taking part in the event, the children also completed another activity as part of the University’s KinderUni programme.

Since 2006, the vineyard of Eszterházy Károly Catholic University has provided kindergarten and primary school children from Eger with an opportunity each year to experience the excitement of the grape harvest and gain a first-hand insight into the process.