Andrea Hanyecz, Founder, Bytheway Wine / Bytheway Wine Cult in Hungary

  • 10 Jun 2026 10:22 AM
Andrea Hanyecz, Founder, Bytheway Wine / Bytheway Wine Cult in Hungary
Andrea is the founder of BYTHEWAY WINE, a boutique natural‑wine brand and curated platform dedicated to showcasing the most exciting small‑batch Hungarian winemakers.

With a background in brand building and a deep passion for authentic, unmanipulated wines, she has become a distinctive voice in Hungary’s new‑wave wine movement.

Andrea’s work focuses on connecting people to place — highlighting the uniqueness, philosophy, and personality of the winemakers behind each bottle. Her brand has become known for its minimalist aesthetic, transparent communication, and a strong emphasis on authenticity: “Natural wine. Unfiltered people.”

Belive in wines with personality, brands with backbone, and communities built on authenticity - she is building exactly that.

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Siófok, right next to Lake Balaton — a place that shaped me more than I realised at the time. The light, the water, the endless summers, the feeling of freedom… it all stays with you. Balaton is still my emotional anchor, a place I return to whenever I need to breathe.

2. If you could be an expat anywhere in the world, where would you choose?

Hong Kong will always have a special place in my heart for its intensity and energy. London for its culture, diversity, and the way it constantly reinvents itself. And the South of France for its lifestyle — the markets, the food, the sea, and of course the natural wine scene that feels so close to my own values.

3. What would you miss most if you moved away from Hungary?

Balaton’s atmosphere, the humour and directness of Hungarians, and that unique Budapest feeling that something unexpected can happen at any moment. It’s a city that keeps you awake and alive.

4. Friends are in Budapest for a weekend — what must they absolutely see and do?

A memorable dinner is a must — Budapest’s culinary scene is full of character. A walk along the Danube at night, when the city lights reflect on the water. And then a place with personality for a drink or a night out. If they’re into wine, I always guide them toward spots that celebrate authenticity and craftsmanship — something I’ve become increasingly passionate about.

5. What is your favourite food?

Anything flavourful, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared — and ideally something that pairs beautifully with wine. ESCA is one of my absolute favourites; their cuisine is consistently inspiring, and I love how they treat ingredients with respect and creativity.

6. What is your favourite sport / form of exercise?

Functional training. It keeps me balanced, strong, and energised — both physically and mentally.

7. What is your favourite place in Hungary?

Budapest, always — it’s where I feel most inspired. But Balaton is home in a different way. It’s my reset button, the place where everything slows down and becomes clear again.

8. What career other than yours would you love to pursue?

Something connected to aviation. Flying has always fascinated me — the precision, the freedom, the perspective it gives you. There’s something magical about being above the world for a moment.

9. What’s a job you would definitely never want?

Anything that requires sitting still all day and crunching numbers. I need movement, people, ideas, and a sense of creation.

10. Where did you spend your last vacation?

Somewhere warm and inspiring — a place where culture, food, and the sea come together. I always choose destinations that recharge me creatively.

11. Where do you hope to spend your next one?

Asia again. Vietnam is high on my list, but I’m also open to discovering a new place that surprises me. I love destinations that challenge my senses and broaden my perspective.

12. What was your favourite band, film, or hobby as a teen?

I loved music from the 80s and 90s — it had a kind of emotional honesty. Films that sparked imagination were my escape. And I collected things with stories behind them; I’ve always been drawn to objects that carry meaning.

13. Apart from temptation, what can’t you resist?

A great natural wine, good company, and a conversation that stretches late into the night. Those are the moments that stay with you.

14. Red wine or white?

Red — especially if it’s natural, expressive, and a little wild. I love wines with personality.

15. Book or movie?

These days I read mostly online. When I watch something, it’s usually documentaries — I like learning while relaxing, discovering new perspectives.

16. Morning person or night person?

Both. I adapt to the rhythm of the day and to what life requires at that moment.

17. Which social issue do you feel most strongly about?

Democracy and pluralism. They’re the foundations of a healthy society and of the kind of community I want to help build.

18. Buda or Pest side?

Buda for living — calm, green, grounded. Pest for going out, discovering new places, and exploring wine bars with character.

19. Which achievement in your life are you most pleased about?

Building meaningful projects that connect people. And recently launching www.bytheway.hu, which brings together my passion for natural wine, good food, and authentic experiences. It feels like the beginning of something truly meaningful.

20. What is your personal motto?

“Stay curious, stay open, and keep tasting life.”

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