Géza Lenkey
LENKEY
Step into the world of Géza, the passionate guardian of Tokaj-Hegyalja’s vineyards. Géza is the creative mind behind Lenkey Winery, a name synonymous with top-notch wines and a spirit of innovation. What makes Géza truly extraordinary is his unwavering commitment to capturing the genuine essence of Tokaj’s land, convinced that time is the magic key to unlock the wines’ full potential.
Lenkey Winery’s story began in 1999, the brainchild of Géza’s father. Today, Géza carries on the family tradition, crafting wines that are nothing short of exceptional. He firmly believes in the uniqueness of the Tokaj-Hegyalja region and the vital role of time in revealing the grapes’ true magic. Here, winemaking pays homage to tradition, free from herbicides since 2005, resulting in a pure and natural taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Yet, what truly sets Géza apart is his daring and expressive approach to winemaking. He refuses to settle for the ordinary, consistently pushing the boundaries with innovative aging methods. He knows that Tokaji wines are intricate and deeply rooted in the land, requiring the patience and care he provides.
Géza’s journey wasn’t one he had foreseen. It all began with a humble ten-acre vineyard in Mád, a modest start that forever altered his course. Following his father’s untimely passing in 2001, Géza took the reins of the winery and the vineyards, steering through challenging times.
Today, Géza is fully immersed in Tokaj, dedicating his time to the cellar and vineyards. With each barrel he samples, he makes decisions that shape the style and character of the wines. Their ancient underground cellars, dating back to the 15th century, offer the ideal conditions for extended barrel aging, where temperature and humidity work their magic.
The Lenkey Winery journey is one of determination and transformation. Géza, Krisztina, and Csaba, Géza’s siblings, transitioned from carefree city life to hands-on vineyard management. Challenges arose when their father’s first vintage venture faltered in 2000. Nevertheless, it was their father’s passing that ignited Géza’s passion, pulling him deeper into the world of winemaking.
Over time, their winemaking philosophy evolved, moving from bulk production to crafting fine wines, with an emphasis on early pruning and double green harvests to ensure top-notch quality. Géza’s beliefs are crystal clear: Tokaj is a one-of-a-kind wine region, and time is the key to unlock its beauty. Their commitment to organic, chemical-free vineyards is evident, with no artificial additives in their wines since 2005.
Lenkey Winery isn’t about quantity; it’s all about quality. They meticulously hand-pick Aszú berries from September to November, selecting grapes by variety and vineyard. It’s a labor of love, a devotion to preserving the heritage of Tokaj in every bottle. Géza’s motto: “Love my Vine.”
- Vineyard size
- 10.4 hectares
- Varietals :
- Furmint
- Hárslevelű
- Sárgamuskotály
- Zenit
- Zengő
- Zalagyöngye
- Cserszegi Fűszeres
- Ottonel Muscat
- Soil and terroir :
- volcanic soils
- rich in rhyolite clay
- white tuff
- zeolite
- red clay
- detritus