It is an ancient Hungarian variety, probably from Badacsony. Old records identified it as the northern Italian variety Picolit, but this has now been refuted by research. It is a special, unique variety, which is essentially only found in its limited home, around the Balaton, and more precisely in Badacsony.
The variety has less than 50 hectares registered, of which 47 can be found in Badacsony, making up only 3% of the total vineyard area of the wine district. Beyond the north shore of the Balaton, a small amount can be found in the Etyek-Buda wine district. It is an extremely rare variety with high quality potential, boasting delicate aromatics and pronounced acidity. Foreign wine literature has also reported on its potentially high quality, which is worth considering despite its uncertain yields. It is capable of producing complex wines due to its waxy texture, spice, complex flavours pronounced acidity and moderately aromatic notes. Its structure and texture make it well-suited to bottle ageing.
The variety is essentially only found in Badacsony and is generally produced in a dry style. Wines benefit from a year or two of bottle ageing to allow better integration of its high acidity. It is characterised by restrained fruit and spice as well as a certain leanness, which may be complemented by its salty, oily texture. The variety can boast peach, cherry blossom, almond, citrus fruit, herbal and mineral notes. Wines are generally lean in style, but also have a good affinity for oak ageing.