It is hard to decide on the most interesting point in the history of Villa Sandahl. Is it the Swedish owners' Badacsony dream, their passion for the wine of ultimate quality, or the distance that the fame of Badacsony travels with drinks made from the grapes of this beautifully maintained estate? No need to choose: it has probably been the interplay of these three things that resulted in popularity of Sandahl wines.

Is there a recipe?

There sure is. In 2004, the owners started the creation of Villa Sandahl with a recipe by the talented Alsatian wine maker Fabien Stirn, a rational approach, the sharp eyes of outsiders, and passion seemingly contradicting everything. They asked winemaker Ambrus Bakó to help them, which proved to be an excellent decision. By the way, for many years their only employee was a tractor driver, now there are none, since they sign business contracts with everyone.

From 2011 to the spring of 2013, Ambrus was very much involved in almost all phases of the winemaking process. Since then,  all quality concepts have been laid down,  so Villa Sandahl does not take up as much of his day as before. His opinion still matters a lot though, and Christer Sandahl heeds his words most of the time. Ambrus talks respectfully about Mr Sandahl and it is clear that they are still on good terms. The reason for their distance is simple: Ambrus wanted to spend more time on his own wine In 2013, both Villa Sandahl and Ambrus Bakó made more wine then ever before.

Vine romance

Naturally, opinions  regarding the Swedish engagement are greatly divided - some talk about the subjugation of Badacsony by foreigners, and some complain about the price level of quality white wines. But no one questions that the vineyards and the buildings of the estate are properly maintained. For the skeptics who aren't convinced by the awards, we'd recommend one of the wine tastings that often take place among the vines: the wines speak for themselves. At such events, one can buy twelve items, and there is a purchase obligation of only 3000 Forints. (Although the cheapest bottle is 4500 Forints, so be sure to count with that.)