After more than a decade of dedicated effort, professional collaboration, and patience, in 2025 another treasure from the wine region has been added to the collection of Hungarikums. The news was proudly welcomed by the winemakers of the Badacsony Wine Region, for whom this recognition is not only an honor but also a new opportunity to raise awareness of Badacsonyi Kéknyelű far and wide.
The journey to becoming a Hungarikum was a long process. First, the variety was included in the National Value Registry. Then, in 2024, the Badacsonyi Szőlőhegyért Association, with the support of local producers and the Hegyközségek Nemzeti Tanácsa, submitted the official application to the Hungarikum Committee. As a result, in 2025 the committee officially declared Badacsonyi Kéknyelű a Hungarikum, together with a geographical indication, emphasizing the close bond between the variety and the wine region.
The name Kéknyelű has now become synonymous with Badacsony, and it is no coincidence. Of Hungary’s 48 hectares of Kéknyelű vineyards, 46 hectares are located in this region. This almost exclusively locally grown variety is a true regional specialty that perfectly reflects the uniqueness of its volcanic terroir.
But what makes Kéknyelű so special?
This grape variety has female flowers, meaning it cannot self-pollinate. Traditionally, Budai Zöld has served as the pollinator, but nowadays the Rózsakő hybrid, a cross between Kéknyelű and Budai Zöld, is increasingly used.
Timeless value, fresh vitality
One of Kéknyelű’s greatest strengths lies in its versatility. It reveals its unique character across a broad spectrum of styles, from light, fresh wines to rich, barrel-aged bottles that can develop beautifully for decades. For several years, Badacsony’s winemakers have been working on a comprehensive classification system to navigate the variety’s diverse styles, help identify premium wines and assist consumers in choosing wines that match their tastes.
Experience shows that Kéknyelű rewards patience, aging gracefully in the bottle and particularly benefiting from barrel and bottle maturation. The mineral complexity imparted by the basaltic soil adds a distinctive depth that sets it apart from other white wines.
New doors open with Hungarikum status
Becoming a Hungarikum can provide fresh momentum not only for the grape variety but for the entire wine region. Local winemakers hope that increased attention and a conscious communication campaign will help not only wine enthusiasts but also the gastronomic world discover this special wine even more.
The goal is not only to maintain Badacsony’s popularity during the summer tourist season but to ensure it remains an attractive destination year-round, offering experiential tourism, local hospitality and, of course, outstanding wines. Kéknyelű is an excellent gastronomic companion, particularly well matched with fish dishes, but its versatility makes it a perfect partner for a wide range of foods. Thanks to its new status, producers are optimistic that Kéknyelű will appear on more wine lists at home and abroad.