Balassa Chardonnay 2024

The Tokaj wine region is one of the oldest and most traditional in Europe, and its strict rules allow only six classic grape varieties. István decided to challenge that tradition and prepare for the future by planting Chardonnay in his top vineyards, Nyulászó and Szent Tamás.

The result is a full-bodied, elegant wine that combines the grape’s natural richness with Tokaj’s signature volcanic minerality. Notes of peach, pear, and a touch of tropical fruit meet a creamy texture and long, salty finish. A bold and fascinating glimpse into Tokaj’s future.

About the Balassa winery

Balassa is a small winery based in the town of Tokaj, founded and run by István Balassa — one of the region’s most dynamic and thoughtful winemakers. With 14 hectares spread across 30 parcels in 11 top sites, the focus here is firmly on terroir: each wine, whether dry or sweet, is a clear expression of its origin.

Balassa’s Furmint bottlings are among the best in Tokaj — energetic, layered, and precise — with each vineyard offering a distinct character. At the same time, István is constantly looking ahead, experimenting with new varieties and taking a scientific, future-facing approach to his work. His legendary tastings on the slopes of Szent Tamás, with wines poured straight from the pickup truck, are as unforgettable as the wines themselves.

Producer information: Balassa Bor Kft., Hegyalja út 37, 3910 Tokaj, Hungary, https://balassabor.hu/