Tradition and innovation: Greenman presents award to the most beautiful fruit-growing estate in the country

(Photo: Agrotrend Group)

Several hundred years ago, when the first apricot trees appeared on the slopes of Zemplén, the locals had no idea that they were helping to establish a valuable landscape variety, which has since deservedly earned its status as a Hungarian variety with its special aroma and excellent productivity. Of course, the favorable climate of the region contributed greatly to this, but the diligence and knowledge of the locals also contributed equally. The craft of fruit growing has been passed down through generations: the secrets of pruning, grafting, and the timing of the harvest. This knowledge, tradition, combined with the rhythm of nature and modern technology, ensure that the world-famous flavor and quality of Gönc apricots are preserved today.

This approach is followed by BESTILLO Pálinka house, which has been ensuring that the flavor of Gönc apricots appears in their pálinkas of the highest quality for many decades

Their work has now received great recognition: this year they won the Agrotrend Group’s 2025 Most Beautiful Estate of Hungary award in the Fruit Growing and Horticultural Estate category. The secret of success lies not only in modern tools, but also in respecting traditions. With more than six thousand self-grown fruit trees, they ensure that at least fifty percent of the raw materials used for pálinka production come from their own harvest. This guarantees the unique flavor, which is shaped by the characteristics of local conditions, climate and soil. The resulting fruit is more resistant, juicier and more balanced than any other regional variety.

However, the work of the pálinka house does not only serve gastronomy

They also preserve the cultural heritage and identity of the region, which has determined the everyday life and community life of the locals for centuries. “In the coming decades, the production of indigenous and regional fruits and vegetables will play a key role in the fight against depleted soils and declining yields. Their work is a worthy example of how we can preserve our common values ​​for future generations,” said Dániel Peretsényi, CEO of Greenman Kft., a family business in Veszprém that supports the category and is built on sustainability.