Anyone who has attended the Etyek Sparkling Wine Conference knows that this event offers much more than a professional forum for industry insiders.

Over the years, it has become a true meeting point for experts, where leading figures from across different fields share the latest trends, combining theory with guided tastings.

To round things off, the programme culminates in a sparkling wine celebration that doubles as a genuine gastronomic and cultural experience.

This year’s conference, held under the patronage of Dr. István Nagy, Hungary’s Minister of Agriculture, will focus on the opportunities of the Central European region under the theme “Sparkling Central Europe”.

The opening overview will be delivered by Kornél Müller, Managing Director of Törley Sparkling Wine Cellar, who will analyse the evolving sparkling wine market in the region.

His insights will be complemented by a business and economic perspective from Dávid Hollósi, Managing Director of Agribusiness at MBH Bank. Poland’s achievements and prospects will be presented by Wojciech Bonkowski, a highly regarded Tokaj expert, recipient of the “Friend of Winemakers” award, and the region’s first Master of Wine.

For those curious about “how the Italians do it”, the programme includes a special masterclass by Romeo Dellera, Sales Director of Berlucchi, featuring Franciacorta sparkling wines.

From Transylvania, the legendary Géza Balla will present his results and experiences, while Samuel Waldner, Sales Director of Slovakia’s Chateau Topolcianky, will share his perspective on the winery’s successes and future potential. In addition, Zsolt Gyulai, owner of Klein Houses Wine Shop in Subotica, will give a presentation titled “Sparkling Serbia”, highlighting the latest trends from Vojvodina.

Of course, the location itself calls for a special focus on Etyek, so the programme also includes a tasting of sparkling wines from the Etyek PDO region. This masterclass will be led by Péter Tüű, a WSG-certified Champagne expert and two-time Hungarian sommelier champion.

Another highlight will be the always lively roundtable discussion, this year centred on “Sparkling Innovation”, where János Frittmann, Ákos Kamocsay, Gábor Laczó and Bence Laposa will engage in an interactive debate about flavoured wines and sparkling cocktails.

The most festive part of the programme is undoubtedly the Sparkling Celebration and Open Bar, set against the picturesque backdrop of the vineyards, for which separate tickets are also available.

During the guided tasting, guests will have the chance to try sparkling wines such as Bohemia Sekt Prestige Chardonnay, Clarus Brut 2022 by Géza Balla, The Morava from The Sparkling Winery, and selections from Chateau Topolcianky.

Afterwards, the open bar will offer a wide-ranging line-up of both Hungarian and international sparkling wines, including several world-class labels.

Location:
Rókusfalvy Birtok
Etyek, Újhegyi street 89.

Web:
pezsgokonferencia.hu/en

More:
Detailed program available here