A powerful, richly layered Chenin Blanc that shows István’s deep affection for the Loire while remaining unmistakably shaped by the volcanic slopes of Szent György-hegy. This 2023 release comes from a later, riper harvest and reflects a style closer to his beloved 2020 vintage — broad, long, and complex, with a subtle oxidative edge that beautifully complements the wine’s intense fruit. The nose opens with ripe citrus oil, baked quince, white peach and almond cream, lifted by hints of lanolin and dried herbs. On the palate, the wine is full and expansive, with impressive length and texture. Notes of yellow apple, bruised pear, mandarin zest, and toasted nuts mingle with a lightly oxidative character, while a touch of volatile lift is already integrating gracefully. Chalky minerality and electric acidity tighten the finish, giving precision to this deep, gastronomic Chenin. A must-try for lovers of the richer, more oxidative Loire expressions.

Winemaker | István Bencze

Region | Badacsony, Hungary

Variety | Chenin Blanc

Viticulture | Biodynamic (certified since 2018)

Soil | Volcanic basalt, sandstone & clay

Altitude | 180 m

Age of the vines | Planted 2014 (10 years)

Bottles made | 1300 bottles

Vinification

The Chenin was harvested in three passes — 5, 8, and 12 September 2023 — from the vineyards surrounding the Vinotéka. After gentle whole-bunch pressing in a Scharfenberger pneumatic press, the must was transferred to a mix of second-fill Chassin and Boutes Soleil Burgundy barrels plus an old, well-seasoned Louis Latour 228 L barrique. Fermentation began strongly, then slowed, continuing under a thin veil of yeast (flor) until October 2023, with occasional topping only at key moments.

Following élevage in these smaller barrels, the lots were blended and moved in August 2023 into a 1500 L Garbelotto oak cask, where the wine rested undisturbed until bottling on 4 September 2024. No fining, no filtration, and no added SO₂ — allowing the wine’s ripe fruit, oxidative hints, and innate volcanic precision to shine with absolute honesty.