Publication of the communication of an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a geographical indication in accordance with Article 5(4) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/27
Date: 2026-06-24
Institutions: Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission
Subjects: Central Transdanubia, Hungary, consumer information, designation of origin, labelling, product designation, quality control of agricultural products, red wine, rosé wine, white wine








C_202603256EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
C series













C/2026/3256


24.6.2026






Publication of the communication of an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a geographical indication in accordance with Article 5(4) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/27 (1)

(C/2026/3256)

COMMUNICATION OF APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT

(Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1143)


‘Balatonfüred-Csopak / Balatonfüred-Csopaki’


EU reference number: PDO-HU-A1516-AM02 – 31.3.2026
                  

1.   Name of product

‘Balatonfüred-Csopak / Balatonfüred-Csopaki’
2.   Geographical indication type







☑


PDO










☐


PGI




3.   Sector







☐


Agricultural products










☑


Wines










☐


Spirit drinks




4.   Country to which the geographical area belongs

Hungary
5.   Member State authority communicating the standard amendment


Name

Ministry of Agriculture
6.   Qualification as standard amendment

The amendment to the product specification of the Balatonfüred-Csopak / Balatonfüred-Csopaki PDO is a standard amendment as it does not fulfil any of the conditions for a Union amendment laid down in Article 24(3) of Regulation (EU) 2024/1143 on geographical indications: the amendment does not entail a change in the name or in the use of the name, nor in the category of product or products designated by the geographical indication. It also does not risk voiding the link to the geographical area referred to in the single document, and it does not entail further restrictions on the marketing of the product. The elements of the amendment are set out in the detailed request.
7.   Description of the approved standard amendment(s)


Title

Amendment of the minimum total alcoholic strength for the various types of wine

Description

The minimum total alcoholic strength of the white and rosé types of wine has been changed from 9 % vol to 10,5 % vol and the minimum total alcoholic strength of red wine from 9 % vol to 12 % vol.
When placing wine made exclusively from grapes of the ‘Irsai Olivér’ variety on the market, the authorised minimum total alcoholic strength is 9 % vol.
In the case of red wines, special rules are laid down to ensure that where siller wine is made from them, the minimum total alcoholic strength must be at least 10,5 % vol.
Justification:
Raising the minimum alcoholic strength results in a stricter qualitative threshold, thus ensuring that the wines are made of grapes of the right maturity and content value. Minimum total alcoholic strength is an indicator of the maturity of the grapes, which influences the body, structure and quality potential of the wine. The amendment prohibits placing items with lower values on the market with a designation of origin, thereby leading to an increase in the professional and market value of the Balatonfüred-Csopak designation of origin.
The prime value of the ‘Irsai Olivér’ variety is its typical fragrant and intense aroma character. In the case of this variety, harvesting at technological maturity ensures that its fragrant, fresh and fruity character is preserved, which is most prevalent at a lower alcoholic strength. A minimum alcoholic strength of 9 % vol ensures that an ample amount of natural sugar accumulates in the grapes, so they are not harvested too early. A minimum level of alcohol therefore serves to guarantee that the wine preserves the fragrant and intense character typical of the variety.
Wine can be placed on the market with the ‘siller’ label if it has a minimum alcoholic strength of 10,5 % vol, taking into account the light, fruity character of the type of wine. ‘Siller’ wine, being a category of red wine with a light, fruity character, expresses its values best at a lower alcoholic strength. Therefore the rules stipulate a corresponding minimum alcoholic strength.
Product specification headings affected:






—


II. Description of the wines










—


VIII. Further conditions




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 6: Description of the wine(s)










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Specific oenological practices

Description

The provision on the upper planting density limit (10 000 vines/ha) has been deleted. The minimum planting density has been changed to 3 000 vines/ha for the Aliga district.
Justification:
The deletion of the upper planting density limit (10 000 vines/ha) is justified because it is not technically necessary to define it, and quality per se is not affected. A reduction of the minimum planting density in the Aliga district to 3 000 vines/ha is justified in the case of vineyards established for the purposes of producing propagation material and on the grounds of cultivation techniques for particular varieties.
Product specification headings affected:








III.


Specific oenological practices




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 7: Specific oenological practices










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Specific oenological practices

Description

Harvesting may be either manual or mechanical for all wine types.
Justification:
Permission to allow mechanical harvesting to be employed was needed for all wine types because of a persistent lack of manual labour and the spread of state-of-the-art mechanised harvesting technologies which preserve the quality of the harvested grapes.
Product specification headings affected:








III.


Specific oenological practices




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 7: Specific oenological practices










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Specific oenological practices

Description

The rule on setting the official date of harvest has been deleted.
Justification:
There is no justification for specifically setting the date of the harvest, because ensuring that the grapes ripen sufficiently (in accordance with the quality parameters laid down in the product specification) is the responsibility of the producer.
Product specification headings affected:








III.


Specific oenological practices




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 7: Specific oenological practices










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Specific oenological practices

Description

The rule on the minimum sugar content of the grapes has been amended as follows:






(a)


White: 10,5 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade) (in the case of placing exclusively Irsai Olivér on the market: 9 % vol [14,9 °Hungarian must grade])










(b)


Rosé: 10,5 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade)










(c)


Red: 12 % vol (18,9 °Hungarian must grade) (in the case of siller wine: 10,5 % vol [16,9 °Hungarian must grade])




Justification:
The minimum alcoholic strength of the wines, as laid down in the product specification, has been increased. This also justifies a proportionate increase in the minimum sugar content of the grapes, because the two parameters are closely interlinked.
Product specification headings affected:








III.


Specific oenological practices




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 7: Specific oenological practices










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Authorised grape varieties

Description

‘Cserszegi Fűszeres’, “Ezerjó”, “Hárslevelű”, “Nektár”, “Pinot Blanc”, “Rozália” and “Zengő” have been deleted from the list of authorised white grape varieties.
Justification:
The cultivation and market experience of recent years show that narrowing the range of varieties that may be used is justified for the purposes of strengthening the designation of origin and ensuring a high, uniform level of quality. A more concentrated selection of varieties helps to more clearly define the link between the place of production and the product and prioritise varieties that are more suited to the conditions of the place of production. The aim of the amendment is therefore to reinforce the quality positioning of the PDO wines on the basis of cultivation experiences by restricting the varieties to those proven to have been most effective and emphasising the uniqueness of the wine region.
Product specification headings affected:
Chapter VI
Single document sections affected:






—


Point 8: Authorised grape varieties










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Control

Description

The list of authorities has been deleted.
Justification:
The control authorities have been restructured and their names have changed. Official checks on compliance with the specification are performed by the authorities designated by the legislation in force.
Product specification headings affected:
Chapter IX






☐


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Further conditions: amendments to the rules on indications and the indication of district names

Description

The name of the Csopak district has been removed from the list of smaller geographical units.
Justification:
The name “Csopak” may only be used in accordance with the official product specification of the Csopak PDO.
Product specification headings affected:








VIII.


Further conditions




Single document sections affected:






—


Point 11: Further applicable requirements










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Further conditions: amendments to the rules on indications and the indication of the names of municipalities

Description









1.


Where the name of a municipality is indicated, the new value for the minimum maturity of the grape is 10,5 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade)












2.


Where the names of municipalities in the Aliga and Zánka districts are used, the maximum yield has been changed to 12 tonnes/hectare.
Justification:












1.


Setting a minimum maturity for the grape makes it possible to adapt more flexibly to the needs of the market.












2.


In the case of the Aliga and Zánka districts, the increase in the maximum yield in connection with the use of the name of the municipality is justified by the appearance of new high-density vineyards. Along with a more intensive planting structure, the higher number of vines per hectare enables a larger volume of harvest per hectare without a concomitant reduction in quality.




Product specification headings affected:








VIII.


Further conditions




Single document sections affected:






—


11. Further applicable requirements










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Further conditions: amendments to the rules on indications and the indication of vineyard names

Description

In the case of the wine-producing municipalities of Balatonfüred, Balatonszőlős, Dörgicse and Pécsely forming part of the Balatonfüred-Szőlősi wine community, sub-vineyards of some of the vineyards need to be indicated (this concerns the annex to the product specification containing a list of vineyards and sub-vineyards).
Justification:
Specifying the sub-vineyards is important in order to highlight the special features of the place of production.
Product specification headings affected:








VIII.


Further conditions




This amendment does not affect the single document.






☐


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Further conditions – ban on using the word “barrique”

Description

Certain terms referring to technological aspects, i.e. the indications “barrique”, “barrique-ban erjesztett” [barrique-fermented],‘hordóban erjesztett’ [barrel-fermented], ‘barrique-ban érlelt’ [barrique-aged] and ‘hordóban érlelt’ [barrel-aged] have been deleted from the product specification in order to simplify and standardise the labelling system.
Justification:
According to the product specification, Balatonfüred-Csopak wines have a typically fruity and fragrant character. Where barrel-ageing is employed, the aroma of oak is not dominant; the primary consideration is rather to preserve the character of the place of production and maintain balance. The sensory profile of the wines is free from the signs of barrel-ageing, and there is a characteristic non-predominance of the use of wood.
Product specification headings affected:








VIII.


Further conditions




Single document sections affected:






—


11. Further applicable requirements










☑


The amendment affects the single document.





Title

Further conditions: rules on indications

Description









1.


The ban relating to the sweetening of the wine and its alcoholic strength is supplemented by a ban on altering its acidity.












2.


When producing a wine for which the vineyard is indicated, a notice of intention to produce must be submitted to the wine community magistrate by 30 April every year. The provisions have been supplemented in such a way that the notice will remain in force until its cancellation.












3.


Where a vineyard and sub-vineyard are indicated, the maximum yield has been changed to the following values: 2,0 kg of grapes/vine (but not more than 8 tonnes of grapes/hectare, or 56,7 hl/ha of new wine on lees)




Justification:








1.


In the case of wines where the vineyard is indicated, the ban on altering acidity results in a more faithful representation of the character of the place of production and ensures a higher level of quality.












2.


The amendment to the notification obligation, according to which the notification of the notice of intention to produce remains in force until its cancellation, serves to reduce the administrative burden on the producers, while at the same time ensuring that official controls continue to take place.












3.


As a result of the increase in the number of vines per hectare and climate change, there is a need to amend the maximum yields to avoid the wines containing excessive amounts of alcohol.




Product specification headings affected:








VIII.


Further conditions




Single document sections affected:






—


11. Further applicable requirements










☑


The amendment affects the single document.




SINGLE DOCUMENT

Designations of origin and geographical indications of wine


‘Balatonfüred-Csopak / Balatonfüred-Csopaki’


EU reference number: PDO-HU-A1516-AM02 – 31.3.2026
                  

1.   Name(s)

‘Balatonfüred-Csopak / Balatonfüred-Csopaki’
2.   Geographical indication type







☑


PDO










☐


PGI




3.   Country to which the demarcated geographical area belongs

Hungary
4.   Classification of the agricultural product in accordance with the Combined Nomenclature heading and code, as referred to in Article 6(1) of Regulation (EU) 2024/1143


               2204  - Wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines; grape must other than that of heading 2009
5.   Categories of grapevine product as listed in Part II of Annex VII to Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013







1.


Wine




6.   Description of the wine or wines


Grapevine product

white

Organoleptic characteristics


Visual appearance







—


fresh, dry, light white wines: pale straw yellow to straw yellow in colour;










—


fragrant or floral white wines: ranging from pale green through pale straw yellow to more pronouncedly straw yellow in colour;










—


full-bodied white wines: ranging from straw yellow through more pronouncedly straw yellow to light golden yellow and golden yellow in colour.





Aroma







—


fresh, dry, light white wines: a white wine that is generally soft in character but harmonious, with aromas free from the signs of barrel-ageing;










—


fragrant or floral white wines: characterised by a pure, intense aroma and rich in harmonious fragrances and flavours;










—


full-bodied white wines: rich, complex aromas, occasionally with notes from ageing in oak barrels.





Taste







—


fresh, dry, light white wines: wines of vivid but balanced acidity which are easy to interpret, with a soft character, fruity taste and occasionally grape-flavoured;










—


fragrant or floral white wines: soft in character and rich in harmonious flavours; can be dry, semi-sweet or sweet, light or medium-bodied;










—


full-bodied white wines: wines of vivid and often high acidity, rich flavours and great structure, suitable for lengthy ageing in oak barrels and bottles, and which retain their varietal character for a long time.





Additional information regarding organoleptic characteristics

—

Analytical characteristics







Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume):


—




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume):


9




Minimum total acidity:


4,6




Minimum total acidity unit:


g/l expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre):


18




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre):


—





Additional information regarding analytical characteristics

Minimum total alcoholic strength of 10,5 % vol. Exception: When placing wine made exclusively from the ‘Irsai Olivér’ grape variety on the market, the minimum total alcoholic strength is 9 % vol.






☑


Any analytical characteristics not indicated in this section are within the limits laid down in the applicable EU legislation.





Grapevine product

rosé

Organoleptic characteristics


Visual appearance

Ranging from pale pink through pink to violet or salmon (to onion skin) in colour.

Aroma

The wines are characterised by an exceptionally fruity aroma and aromas free from the signs of barrel-ageing.

Taste

The taste profile of the wines is characterised by a light, lively acidity and flavours free of any signs of barrel ageing.

Additional information regarding organoleptic characteristics

—

Analytical characteristics







Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume):



—





Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume):


9




Minimum total acidity:


4,6




Minimum total acidity unit:


g/l expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre):


18




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre):


—





Additional information regarding analytical characteristics

Minimum total alcoholic strength of 10,5 % vol.






☑


Any analytical characteristics not indicated in this section are within the limits laid down in the applicable EU legislation.





Grapevine product

red

Organoleptic characteristics


Visual appearance







—


fresh, fruity red wines: The wines characteristically have colours ranging from pale ruby to pronouncedly dark ruby;










—


medium- and full-bodied red wines: The wines characteristically have colours ranging from pronouncedly ruby through ruby to pale garnet.





Aroma







—


fresh, fruity red wines: The wines are characterised by simple, fruity (juicy) and youthful aromas and hints of oak and tannin.










—


medium- and full-bodied red wines: The wines are characterised by an intense, fruity character and partial or more intensive ageing in wooden barrels.





Taste







—


fresh, fruity red wines: The wines are characterised by low alcoholic strength and acidity and a pure, intense fruity character.










—


medium- and full-bodied red wines: The wines are characteristically full-bodied, possessing a typically smooth, velvety structure and an intense fruity character without pronounced tannic notes, where the flavour of oak is not dominant.





Additional information regarding organoleptic characteristics

—

Analytical characteristics







Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume):


—




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume):


9




Minimum total acidity:


4,6




Minimum total acidity unit:


g/l expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre):


20




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre):


—





Additional information regarding analytical characteristics

Minimum total alcoholic strength of 12 % vol. Exception: In this case, the minimum total alcoholic strength of siller wine is 10,5 % vol.






☑


Any analytical characteristics not indicated in this section are within the limits laid down in the applicable EU legislation.




7.   Winemaking practices

7.1.   Specific oenological practices used to make the wine or wines, relevant restrictions on making them


Winemaking practice

Grape production (1)

Type of oenological practice

Specific oenological practice

Description









1.


Cultivation method and planting density:






(a)


In the case of vines planted before 1 August 2010, wine bearing the Balatonfüred-Csopak protected designation of origin may be produced from grapes harvested from vineyards with any planting density and cultivation method authorised earlier, for as long as production is continued in the vineyard










(b)


provisions relating to vines planted after 1 August 2010:






(i)


cultivation method: umbrella, low cordon, medium-high cordon, Moser cordon, single curtain, Guyot, head, gobelet training










(ii)


planting density: minimum planting density of 3 300 vines/ha (minimum of 3 000 vines/ha for the Aliga district).













Winemaking practice

Grape production (2)

Type of oenological practice

Relevant restriction on making the wines

Description









2.


Method of harvest: manual and mechanical harvesting












3.


Minimum sugar content of the grapes (expressed as potential alcoholic strength):






(a)


White: 10,5 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade) (in the case of placing exclusively ‘Irsai Olivér’ on the market: 9 % vol [14,9 °Hungarian must grade])










(b)


Rosé: 10,5 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade)










(c)


Red: 12 % vol (18,9 °Hungarian must grade) (in the case of siller wine: 10,5 % vol [16,9 °Hungarian must grade])








7.2.   Maximum yields


All wines / category / variety / type

white

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


100




Maximum yield unit:


hectolitres per hectare





All wines / category / variety / type

white

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


14 000 




Maximum yield unit:


kg of grapes per hectare





All wines / category / variety / type

rosé

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


100




Maximum yield unit:


hectolitres per hectare





All wines / category / variety / type

rosé

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


14 000 




Maximum yield unit:


kg of grapes per hectare





All wines / category / variety / type

red

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


100




Maximum yield unit:


hectolitres per hectare





All wines / category / variety / type

red

Maximum yield







Maximum yield:


14 000 




Maximum yield unit:


kg of grapes per hectare




8.   Indication of the wine grape variety or varieties from which the wine or wines are produced







—


cabernet franc – cabernet










—


cabernet sauvignon










—


chardonnay – chardonnay blanc










—


furmint – furmint bianco










—


irsai olivér – irsai










—


juhfark – fehérboros










—


királyleányka – erdei sárga










—


kékfrankos – blaufränkisch










—


kékoportó – portugizer










—


merlot










—


olasz rizling – olaszrizling










—


ottonel muskotály – muscat ottonel










—


pinot noir – kék burgundi










—


rajnai rizling – riesling










—


rizlingszilváni – müller thurgau










—


sauvignon – sauvignon blanc










—


semillon – semillon blanc










—


syrah – blauer syrah










—


szürkebarát – pinot gris










—


sárga muskotály – muscat lunel










—


tramini – gewürtztraminer










—


zenit










—


zeus










—


zweigelt – blauer zweigeltrebe




9.   Concise definition of the demarcated geographical area

Definition of the demarcated area:
Areas of the municipalities of Alsóörs, Aszófő, Balatonakali, Balatonalmádi, Balatonfőkajár, Balatonfüred, Balatonkenese, Balatonszőlős, Balatonudvari, Balatonvilágos, Csopak, Dörgicse, Felsőörs, Lovas, Mencshely, Örvényes, Paloznak, Pécsely, Tihany, Vászoly, Balatoncsicsó, Monoszló, Óbudavár, Szentantalfa, Szentjakabfa, Tagyon and Zánka that are classified as Class I or II according to the vineyard cadastre.
10.   Link with the geographical area


Category of grapevine product







1.


Wine





Summary of the link

1.   Description of the demarcated area

Natural and cultural factors

The Balatonfüred-Csopak demarcated production area consists of the first and second range of hills on the northern shore of the eastern basin of Lake Balaton, on the section of shore stretching from Balatonfőkajár to Zánka. The area near the shore consists of a narrow, low-lying plain, which is therefore not used for grape-growing. The key grape-growing areas are the sloping surfaces of the foothills and moderately steep brows of the hills.
The base rock of the vineyards is composed of upland-type rocks of the Upper Permian to Lower Triassic periods, with a blanket of Quaternary rubble. The soils in the area are not very variable; they are forest soils with clay illuviation. The characteristic and unique soil of the wine region is red forest soil, created through the weathering of iron oxide-rich Permian sandstone. The wine region is characterised by soils rich in calcium, magnesium and potassium.
The climate of Balatonfüred-Csopak is determined by cold air descending from the valleys of the Bakony hills and by Lake Balaton, which lies to the south of the basin. The vineyards of the wine region are embedded in large forested areas. That is why, on summer days, under the influence of the evening breeze blowing towards the lake, the humid heat welling up from Lake Balaton gives way to cool forest air between the vines.
Balatonfüred-Csopak experiences an annual average of 1 950 to 2 000 hours of sunshine and an annual average temperature of 11-12 °C. The average annual precipitation is 650–700 mm, of which an average of 350 mm falls in the wine region.
A crucial aspect of the wine region’s climate is that the date of the last spring frost is 5 April, which is considered exceptionally early.

Human factors

The importance of viticulture and viniculture in the Balatonfüred-Csopak wine region has been unbroken for more than 2 200 years. Grape cultivation was introduced by the Celts, and viniculture was fairly developed in the period when the region was part of the Roman Empire, as confirmed by the grape motifs found on the wall of a villa excavated at Baláca. Later the Hungarian kings, the church and the nobility held lands and vineyards here. In 1018, for example, Saint Stephen gave Balatonfüred-Csopak vines to the Veszprém Valley convent as a gift. In the Middle Ages, the Benedictine abbey of Tihany, as the largest owner of vineyards among the twenty nearby villages, played a key role in overseeing the development of the wine region.
The development of land for grape cultivation is also the result of deliberate human effort; for millennia the viticulturists living here have cultivated nothing but grapes on frost-protected, rapidly warming hillsides, instead of in marshy low-lying areas prone to frosts and disease.
Deliberate human thinking has led in Balatonfüred-Csopak to belts of forest separating individual vineyards from one another; these are home to a diverse range of fauna. In viticultural terms, these forest belts are critical natural overwintering sites for key predators.
In the 9th and 10th centuries, the first Magyar settlers in the region brought with them several grape varieties belonging to the so-called ‘Pontic’ group of varieties which, when crossed with vines from local woods over the centuries, formed the authochthonous Juhfark variety endemic to Balatonfüred-Csopak.
The current variety structure in Balatonfüred-Csopak developed significantly following the phylloxera crisis, owing to the fact that the majority of previously cultivated varieties had disappeared from the wine region. Local wine producers based the cultivation of Balatonfüred-Csopak on late and medium-late ripening white wine grape varieties that adapt well to the local ecological conditions (e.g. ‘Juhfark’, ‘Olaszrizling’, ‘Szürkebarát [Pinot Gris]’). These varieties are now inseparable from the wine region.
These grape varieties were traditionally grown on low grapevines with a high number of vines per hectare. A number of varieties associated with this wine region have been introduced on the basis of experiments over the last sixty years (e.g. ‘Cserszegi Fűszeres’).
After the political transition in Hungary, producers in the reviving Balatonfüred-Csopak wine region used these same locally important varieties as a basis for creating a new image for the wine region and also added red wine grape varieties needed to lay the foundations for rosé and red wine production. During vineyard renewal, high training methods reflecting the quantity-focused approach of the state socialism era were gradually abandoned for low and medium-high training methods combining local traditions and modern wine-growing knowledge. The maximum allowable yields were also redefined according to the requirements of quality wine production (maximum of 100 hl/ha), and they have been further limited for wines marketed with the indication of the vineyard name.
Traditionally, high-quality grapes are processed in local cellars.
Since 1987 the town of Balatonfüred, which has shaped the life of the Balatonfüred-Csopak wine region, has held the title of ‘International City of Vine and Wine’.
One of the most important recognitions of the reputation and quality of the Balatonfüred-Csopak wines was when, in 2000, a producer from Balatonfüred-Csopak won the ‘Wine Producer of the Year’ award.

Category of grapevine product







1.


Wine





Summary of the link

2.   Description of the wines
Balatonfüred-Csopak wines have discrete nose, while also being typified by a richness of bouquet and taste which guarantees the elegance of Balatonfüred-Csopak wines. A key common feature of their aromas and flavours is the predominant minerality and the lack of musty aromatic elements. In terms of taste, a mature and complex acid structure predominates, ensuring the Balatonfüred-Csopak wines’ crispness and freshness. Balatonfüred-Csopak wines typically have an almondy aftertaste, which lingers long after tasting.

Category of grapevine product







1.


Wine





Summary of the link

3.   Presentation and demonstration of the causal link
Due to the precipitation during the growing season and the water-holding capacity of the topsoil in the Balatonfüred-Csopak region, water supply to the vines is adequate even on warm summer days. For this reason, grape development during the critical summer period is uninterrupted and stress factors are absent, resulting in no musty aromas or harsh immature acids.
The mature, expressive acid structure and the pronounced mineral notes are due to the high mineral content of the Balatonfüred-Csopak soil. The locally important ‘Olasz Rizling’ and ‘Szürkebarát’ varieties chosen by local producers accumulate large quantities of magnesium and calcium in the wines.
The sun’s rays reflected off the surface of the shallow lake cause the hillsides to warm up evenly in spring and provide the vines with consistent conditions during budding. Because the final day of frost occurs early, there is less chance of spring frosts in the Balatonfüred-Csopak wine region; consequently, shoot growth is even and a large enough foliage surface develops every year, resulting in optimal ripening of the grapes.
A key role in grape cultivation is played by the forest belts located next to the vineyards, as the predators that overwinter in them (insects such as predatory mites) keep pests appreciably in check. Thus the critically important initial developmental phase of the grapes is not protracted, enabling a higher and healthier leaf wall to develop.
The warm summer and Mediterranean high-pressure system ensures that, after the long, sunny days of autumn, in cool evenings brought on by breezes from the Bakony Hills, the vine rapidly enters the dark phase of photosynthesis, leading to a rapid increase in grape sugar concentration. This unique natural constraint gives Balatonfüred-Csopak wines their body.
The elegant acid structure and fruity aromas characteristic of wines from Balatonfüred-Csopak is also due to cool air descending from the forests. On the hillsides where grapes are grown, selected over the course of centuries, the constant movement of the air and the low-training of the vines mean that dew on the grape clusters dries quickly, so fungal diseases are uncommon and healthy grapes can be harvested.
Traditional local cellars also have a significant impact on the quality of the wines. Owing to Balatonfüred-Csopak’s soil structure, the local cellars are not built fully underground, leading them to experience noticeable fluctuations in temperature over the course of the year. As a result, the wines cool down during winter and their freshness is preserved, despite being aged in wooden barrels. In summer, when the cellars warm up to between 15 and 19 degrees, natural precipitation of heat-sensitive and unstable tartrates occurs. As a result of this natural process, local wine-makers are able to stabilise the wines more easily, which consequently preserve the richness of their aromas better.
These natural factors, taken as a whole, in conjunction with the centuries-old expertise, passed down from father to son, of the wine producers who live in the region, together guarantee that high-quality, full-bodied and expressive wines typical of Balatonfüred-Csopak will be created from healthy, mature clusters of grapes.
11.   Further applicable requirements


Title of the requirement/derogation

Rules on indications

Legal framework

By the organisation that manages the PDO/PGI, where laid down by Member States

Type of further requirement/derogation

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the requirement/derogation









1.


The use of adjective variations derived from the names of all smaller geographical units listed in point (i) by using the affix ‘-i’ is permitted.












2.


The word ‘rozé’ may be replaced by the word ‘rosé’.












3.


In the case of Balatonfüred-Csopak wines bearing a trademark containing the name of a smaller geographical unit or a trademark established as a result of use before 11 May 2002, the general rules governing municipality and vineyard indication are not applicable.












4.


On the label of a wine with the Balatonfüred-Csopak protected designation of origin, the words ‘oltalom alatt álló eredetmegjelölés’ (‘protected designation of origin’) may be replaced by ‘védett eredetű bor’ (‘protected origin wine’).












5.


The use of indications relating to sugar content is mandatory on all Balatonfüred-Csopak wines.












6.


The expressions ‘termőhelyen palackozva’ (bottled in the production area), ‘termelői palackozás’ (bottled by the producer) and ‘pinceszövetkezetben palackozva’ (bottled in a winery cooperative) may be indicated on any Balatonfüred-Csopak wine.












7.


‘Küvé’ or ‘cuvée’ wines may indicate wines obtained by blending several grape varieties, on the label of which the name of the grape varieties constituting the cuvée may be indicated in descending order of quantity in order to provide information for consumers, provided that each variety accounts for at least 5 % of the blend.












8.


Conditions for use of the restricted expression ‘Muskotály’ [Muscat]:






8.1.


The indication of a variety is not permitted;










8.2.


At least 85 % of the wine consists of ‘Irsai Olivér’, ‘Ottonel Muskotály’ or ‘Sárga Muskotály’.
















9.


Rules for demarcating and indicating smaller geographical units:












9.1.


Districts:












9.1.1.


Names that may be indicated:












9.1.1.1.


Aliga: the municipalities of Balatonfőkajár, Balatonkenese and Balatonvilágos;












9.1.1.2.


Balatonfüred: the municipalities of Aszófő, Balatonakali, Balatonfüred, Balatonszőlős, Balatonudvari, Dörgicse, Mencshely, Örvényes, Pécsely, Tihany and Vászoly;












9.1.1.3.


Zánka: the municipalities of Zánka, Monoszló, Tagyon, Szentantalfa, Balatoncsicsó, Szentjakabfa and Óbudavár.












9.1.2.


Conditions for inclusion:












9.1.2.1.


Identity of origin: at least 85 %












9.1.2.2.


Minimum sugar content of the grapes (expressed as potential alcoholic strength): 10,60 % vol (17 °Hungarian must grade)












9.1.2.3.


Maximum yield:












9.1.2.3.1.


Aliga, Zánka: 14 t of grapes/ha or 100 hl/ha of new wine on lees












9.2.


Municipalities:












9.2.1.


Names that may be indicated: Alsóörs, Aszófő, Balatonakali, Balatonalmádi, Balatoncsicsó, Balatonfőkajár, Balatonkenese, Balatonszőlős, Balatonudvari, Balatonvilágos, Dörgicse, Felsőörs, Lovas, Mencshely, Monoszló, Óbudavár, Örvényes, Paloznak, Pécsely, Szentantalfa, Szentjakabfa, Tagyon, Vászoly.












9.2.2.


Conditions for inclusion:












9.2.2.1.


Identity of origin: 85 %












9.2.2.2.


Minimum sugar content of the grapes (expressed as potential alcoholic strength): 10,50 % vol (16,9 °Hungarian must grade)












9.2.2.3.


The maximum yield is 2,5 kg of grapes/vine, but not more than 10 t of grapes/ha or 72 hl/ha of new wine on lees; in the case of municipalities within the Aliga and Zánka district, the maximum yield is 3,0 kg of grapes/vine, but not more than 12 t/ha of grapes or 90 hl/ha of new wine on lees.












9.3.


Vineyards and sub-vineyards:












9.3.1.


Names that may be indicated: see the annex to the product specification containing a list of vineyards and sub-vineyards












9.3.2.


Conditions for inclusion:












9.3.2.1.


Identity of origin: 100 %












9.3.2.2.


Minimum sugar content of the grapes (expressed as potential alcoholic strength): 12,05 % vol (19,0 °Hungarian must grade)












9.3.2.3.


Maximum yield of 2,0 kg of grapes/vine (but not more than 8 t of grapes/hectare, or 56,7 hl/ha of new wine on lees)












9.3.2.4.


Sweetening the wine, increasing its alcoholic strength and altering its acidity are prohibited.












9.3.2.5.


In the case of a wine indicating the vineyard, the lot bottle count must be indicated on the label.












10.


Traditional terms authorised for use, other terms whose use is restricted, terms indicating the production method, and other terms whose use is regulated:












10.1.


White: ‘muzeális bor’ [historical wine], ‘első szüret szűztermés’ [first harvest virgin crop], ‘primőr újbor’ [primeur new wine], ‘jégbor’ [ice wine], ‘szűretlen’ [unfiltered], ‘előállításra utaló jelzés*’ [indication referring to the production method*], ‘muskotály’ [muscat], ‘késői szüret’ [late-harvest], ‘válogatott szüretelésű bor’ [selected-harvest wine]












10.2.


Red: ‘muzeális bor’ [historical wine], ‘primőr újbor’ [primeur new wine], ‘szűretlen’ [unfiltered], ‘előállításra utaló jelzés*’ [indication referring to the production method*], ‘siller’, ‘késői szüretelésű bor’ [late-harvest wine], ‘válogatott szüretelésű bor’ [selected-harvest wine]












10.3.


Rosé: ‘primőr újbor’ [primeur new wine]
‘Siller’ wine can be placed on the market if it has a minimum alcoholic strength of 10,5 % vol.












11.


The designation ‘Balaton borrégió’ [Balaton wine region] may appear on the label.





Title of the requirement/derogation

Rules on presentation

Legal framework

By the organisation that manages the PDO/PGI, where laid down by Member States

Type of further requirement/derogation

—

Description of the requirement/derogation

Wines indicating the vineyard name, late-harvest wines, selected-harvest wines and ice wines may be placed on the market in glass bottles only. This rule does not apply to wines produced within the production area by producers in their own cellar for on-site consumption.

Title of the requirement/derogation

Appointment of the competent local wine evaluation committee

Legal framework

In national legislation

Type of further requirement/derogation

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the requirement/derogation

Balaton Wine Region Wine-grading Committee (Balaton Borrégió Borminősítő Bizottsága)

Title of the requirement/derogation

Registers, reporting, notifications

Legal framework

In national legislation

Type of further requirement/derogation

—

Description of the requirement/derogation

When producing a wine for which the vineyard is indicated, a notice of intention to produce must be submitted to the wine community magistrate by 30 April every year, which remains in force until it is cancelled.

Title of the requirement/derogation

Production outside the demarcated production area

Legal framework

In national legislation

Type of further requirement/derogation

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the requirement/derogation

Veszprém county

Title of the requirement/derogation

Smaller geographical units that may be indicated

Legal framework

By the organisation that manages the PDO/PGI, where laid down by Member States

Type of further requirement/derogation

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the requirement/derogation







(a)


Municipalities:
Smaller geographical units that may be indicated:
Municipalities: Alsóörs, Aszófő, Balatonakali, Balatoncsicsó, Balatonfőkajár, Balatonfüred, Balatonszőlős, Balatonudvari, Balatonvilágos, Csopak, Dörgicse, Felsőörs, Lovas, Mencshely, Monoszló, Óbudavár, Örvényes, Paloznak, Pécsely, Szentantalfa, Szentjakabfa, Tagyon, Tihany, Vászoly, Zánka
demarcation: administrative boundaries










(b)


Named vineyards: According to the list in the annex to the product specification among the supporting documents uploaded





Electronic (URL) reference to publication of the product specification


https://boraszat.kormany.hu/admin/download/f/4b/83000/Balatonf%C3%BCred-Csopak%20OEM%20Standard_v2.pdf



(1)  Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/27 of 30 October 2024 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1143 of the European Parliament and of the Council with rules concerning the registration and the protection of geographical indications, traditional specialities guaranteed and optional quality terms and repealing Delegated Regulation (EU) No 664/2014 (OJ L, 2025/27, 15.1.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2025/27/oj).


ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2026/3256/oj
ISSN 1977-091X (electronic edition)