Founded in 2009 by Gábor Ádám, Sabar Wine Estate is a small producer – only 7 hectares – located on Sabar Hill (hence the name) in Hungary’s Badacsony wine region, part of the Lake Balaton area. The region’s characteristic volcanic soil terroir finds its way into Gábor’s wines, where it is gently guided by him in the cellar to create fresh, mineral-driven whites like Kéknyelű, Olaszrizling, and Pinot Gris. A sip of Gábor’s wines and you’ll understand “sabarism” – the joy and the magic of Sabar Hill.
Sabar Kéknyelű 2022, Badacsony, Hungary
This rare white will find its way into your heart
Founded in 2009 by Gábor Ádám, Sabar – located in the Badacsony region – is home to this rare Kéknyelű variety. Fermented in stainless steel and matured in oak for only 4 months, this elegant, single-vineyard white is both bright and creamy – with flavors like tangy lemon, fleshy white peach, a dash of white pepper, and persistent salinity from the region's basalt soils – you'll be hard pressed to stop at one glass.
Awards: 2024 Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge, 92 points – Double Gold
Jancis Robinson 16+
Sabar Olaszrizling 2023, Badacsony, Hungary
Fresh, fun, and fab – this is your party in a bottle
The Olaszrizling for this wine comes from 4 locations in Badacsony, including Bács hill and Sabar Hill. The juice from these succulent grapes is fermented in stainless steel, then the wine aged in both stainless and oak – creating a flavor explosion of zesty lemon, juicy peach, and crunchy apple. Enjoy this with lighter fare like salads and grilled fish – or better yet, on its own, hanging out with friends.
Awards: Jancis Robinson 15.5
Sabar Pinot Gris 2022, Badacsony, Hungary
Plush and lush – this white is your latest crush
The Pinot Gris for this wine comes from the Csángó vineyard on the southern slope of Gulács mountain – where it sees ample sunshine for optimal ripening. The result is a creamy, textured white dripping with stone fruit flavors like luscious yellow peaches, juicy nectarines, and dried apricot combined with sweet vanilla and honey. To say this wine is a decadent delight is an understatement.
Photo credits: Sabar Wine Estate.