The award ceremony of the 11th National Pálinka and Törkölypálinka Competition took place

The head of the ministry pointed out that Hungary’s best pálinka and the most successful pálinka distillery are chosen at this event, which is why such competitions should be awarded to those who make this noble drink and who turn the unadulterated essence of fruits into a glass.

István Nagy explained that pálinka is more than a spirit drink for Hungarians. Pálinka is our singular hungaricum, which we regard as a national treasure. In the past 30 years, Hungarian pálinka has regained its rightful status in gastronomy, hospitality and tourism, thanks to dedicated brewers, traders and hospitality professionals.

The Minister of Agriculture recalled that the introduction of the pálinka law in 2008 and the European Union trademark obtained in 2004, as well as the protection of origin achieved in 2011, all contributed to increasing the quality and reputation of pálinka. Thanks go to the farmers and producers who provide high-quality Hungarian fruit for good pálinka – reminded István Nagy.