1st Blaufränkisch International Competition

306 wines from 13 countries were tasted at the 1st Blaufränkisch International Competition in Moravia, the Czech Republic. Jackfall Kékfrankos Premium 2020 from Villány is the best red Blaufränkisch / Kékfrankos, while Kúria Sopron Rosé Brut is the best sparkling wine of the variety. Besides them, Vylyan Kékfrankos 2023 (Villány), Kúria Sopron Kékfrankos 2020 (Sopron) and Podmaniczky Kékfrankos 2024 (Balatonboglár) received grand gold medals. Several other Hungarian wines won gold medals, among others Heimann Family Winery (Szekszárd), Koch Winery (Hajós–Baja), Kovács Nimród Winery (Eger), Steigler Cellar (Sopron), Vesztergombi Cellar (Szekszárd).

From the press release of the contest

The Blaufränkisch wines were evaluated by seven expert panels with strong international representation, including British Master of Wine Caroline Gilby, who expressed her delight at being part of the judging. “Blaufränkisch is a variety very close to my heart. I firmly believe it has a bright future in today’s modern wine world thanks to its freshness and elegance. This competition represents a key opportunity to build the story of Blaufränkisch and to demonstrate its ability to reflect its place of origin. I was surprised that an International Blaufränkisch Day did not already exist – when Pinot Noir has its own day and Furmint even has an entire month, Blaufränkisch certainly deserves one,” said Caroline Gilby MW.

See the result catalogue here

More about the contest

Let us introduce the two category-winner Hungarian wines!

Jackfall Kékfrankos Premium 2020, Villány

It is Jackfall’s first premium Kékfrankos wine. Dark ruby, deep-red colour. The aroma is lively, featuring black berries alongside a distinctive and complex bouquet of spices. On the palate, it offers excellent acidity, a polished, lively structure, and superb tannins. A complex wine with tremendous potential.
Retail price on the webshop of the winery: 6590 HUF (approximately 17.30 EUR).
More about Jackfall Winery

Kúria Sopron Rosé Brut, Sopron

Using the tank sparkling process, the Kékfrankos grapes were harvested at full maturity, and the must was fermented in a pressure resistant tank. The sparkling wine was aged for another three months on fine lees until bottling. Light salmon colour, with delicate, creamy bubbles. Very intense fruity notes: raspberry, currant and red berry compote, complemented by a hint of light floral character. On the palate, after a soft, elegant foam, we get back the fruits felt in the aroma. The red berries vibrate in the glass, then in the long, creamy finish, a soft creaminess and delicate tartness return. Drink with ice, a fresh experience in every sip.
Retail price on the webshop of the winery at the time of publishing (special offer): 4220 HUF (approximately 11 EUR).

More about Kúria Sopron