BENCZE BIRTOK

HUNGARY | BADACSONY

István founded his estate on the renowned Szent György-hill in 2011, and by 2013, it expanded to 18 hectares. Committed to organic and, from 2015, biodynamic practices (Demeter certified), he has focused on exploring Hungary's ancient grape varieties and the unique potential of his land. His vineyards span three distinct plots on the southern slopes of the mountain, with his crown jewel, the Templomdombi vineyard, standing out for its mineral-rich basalt soil.

The terroir, a mix of volcanic basalt, tuff, Pannonian sandstone, and brown forest soil, offers an exceptional environment for varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Noir, Kék Bakator, Furmint, Hárslevelű and Kéknyelű. István’s philosophy centres on fostering a semi-wild equilibrium in the vineyard, where plants develop a natural relationship with their surroundings to produce the finest raw material.

In the cellar, István follows a minimalist approach, using gravity techniques and traditional methods like amphora and barrels. With no filtering or clarifying, and a complete removal of sulfur since the 2018 vintage, his wines are a pure reflection of the terroir – elegant, authentic, and deeply rooted in the land’s rich history.