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• From the „just for the naked public good” drink to the Hungaricum; the faith of the pálinka

  29-40

  Imre Milán Harcsa

  Views:

  47

  The study is show the way how the pálinka became a national treasure. Going out to the traditions of distillation, showing the over-centuries-old, not always glorious past of the drink. As a result after the regime change the culture of pálinka consumption is changed as well. While previously only regarded as peasants' morning drink, today's premium product has been upgraded thanks to the Pálinka Act and many other factors. From 2014 onwards, every year, under the Excellence Program, the most excellent spirits are valued as "Country Tasting". Regarding the beginning of distillation, the opinions differ significantly, however, regarding the preparation of concentrated beverages, we can speak about a thousand years of tradition. It is interesting to follow that - while the alcoholists were condemned in the 19th century, and the pálinka was called "just for the naked public good" drink - how it gained recognition and increased to “Hungaricum” rank.

• The situation of pálinka in Hungary. Problems and opportunities

  75-87

  Imre Milán Harcsa

  Views:

  127

  Distillation has centuries-old traditions in Hungary. A brief international outlook will also present the private distillation practices of the surrounding countries. Pálinka is a Hungaricum product produced by exclusively in commercial distilleries. In our country it is possible to make in subcontractdistilleries or at home, however, the product made in this way can only be called distillate and cannot be marketed. Over the last ten years, the legal framework governing the production of pálinka has changed very often, affecting the operators in the sector in different ways. Statistical information on each type of distilling will be presented, with special emphasis on the tax exemption period. Using known data from subcontract distilling, it was found that a HUF 52.1 billion deficit arose from the abolition of excise duty. The 0% excise tax resulted in a boom in subcontract distillation, with a neutral, partly negative effect on commercial distilling. The number of home distillers started to grow extraordinarily, and after the tax was restored, about 50,000 to 70,000 people disappeared from the ranks of subcontractors. Based on secondary sources, I have identified problems in the sector that need to be resolved. Furthermore, I outline the opportunities that are available but are not being used enough.