Hungary’s National Food Safety Office (NÉBIH) has confirmed the detection of flavescence dorée in vineyards located in the northeastern part of the country, including the historically significant Tokaj wine region.
The announcement, made on early-October, follows laboratory analysis of samples collected from two separate locations, both of which tested positive for the disease.
The Tokaj region, world-renowned for its sweet botrytized wines, is among the oldest demarcated wine areas globally. Officially recognized as a protected wine region by royal decree in 1737 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, Tokaj’s vineyards are a cornerstone of Hungary’s viticultural identity. The emergence of flavescence dorée now poses a dual threat — to both the economic sustainability of wine production and the cultural heritage of this centuries-old landscape.
In response, Hungarian authorities have established containment zones around the affected vineyards. Within these areas, inspectors are conducting systematic vine checks and removing infected plants to prevent further spread. Movement of vine material from these zones has been restricted until further notice.
Flavescence dorée is a phytoplasma disease that attacks grapevines, leading to leaf yellowing, poor fruit set, and vine dieback. It is transmitted primarily by the leafhopper insect (Scaphoideus titanus), whose population dynamics are increasingly influenced by rising temperatures and shifting climate patterns across Central Europe. The pathogen has already caused substantial damage in several major wine-producing countries, including France, Italy, and Slovenia.
Experts warn that the disease’s arrival in Tokaj marks a critical moment for Hungarian viticulture, as the region’s vineyards are highly sensitive to such outbreaks. “The combination of unique terroir, traditional production methods, and climatic conditions makes Tokaj particularly vulnerable,” said a representative from NÉBIH. “Our immediate objective is to contain the infection and protect both the vines and the identity of this heritage region.”
According to data from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), Hungary produced 270 million litres (≈EUR 270 million in export value) of wine in the previous year, ranking 14th globally. Wine plays a vital role in the country’s agricultural economy and cultural exports, with Tokaj wines enjoying a strong international presence.
Local growers are now working closely with national and regional authorities to monitor vineyards and apply preventive and control measures, including insect population management and ongoing surveillance. While these steps may mitigate immediate risks, long-term resilience will require adaptation to evolving climatic and biological pressures.
The spread of flavescence dorée in Hungary underscores a broader European viticultural challenge. As climate change continues to influence pest distribution and disease prevalence, wine regions across the continent are re-evaluating vineyard management strategies and investing in research to safeguard yields and quality.
For now, containment and vigilance remain the primary focus in Tokaj and neighbouring districts. The coming months will be decisive in determining whether Hungary can successfully prevent a larger-scale outbreak — and in doing so, protect one of Europe’s most historically significant wine landscapes.
Source: Vinetur