The House of Keglevié or Keglevich is a Croatian noble family originally from Northern Dalmatia, whose members were prominent public citizens and military officers.
As experienced warriors, they actively participated in the Croatian-Ottoman and Ottoman-Hungarian wars, as well were patrons of the arts and holders of the rights of patronage over churches and parishes.
Originally, the company was known as “The Descendants of Count István Keglevich Cognac Factory”.
Born in 1840, the founder István Keglevich, was a prominent figure mentioned in historical sources as an imperial and royal chamberlain, a member of parliament. He was also recognized as the intendant of the Hungarian State Opera House and the National Theatre. In addition to his military and political endeavors, he made ventures into finance and the stock market.
Tragically, his life came to an end in a duel in 1905.
The Count’s daring nature and endeavors brought his descendants to preserve his name, István Keglevich, throughout the company’s history until the 1930s.
During the American Prohibition era, the production of alcoholic beverages thrived in Hungary.
Cognac production began in Hungary in the late 19th century, following the devastating vine pest epidemic.
Multiple companies were established in the wine regions of the country, including Budafok, a settlement located near the capital city of Budapest and the home of the Count Keglevich Cognac Factory.
An article from Váczi Közlöny, dated 1894, states:
“There is only one cognac factory in the entire monarchy that publishes official statements about the amount of wine processed and the alcohol and taxes paid. This is the cognac factory of Count István Keglevich’s successor in Promontor…”
“We are convinced that this company, both due to its stability and the exceptional quality of its products, has rightfully earned the complete recognition of the public. Therefore, we warmly recommend it to everyone.”
At the age of 64, István Keglevich was already a well-known figure, having been elected as a member of parliament back in 1865.
On May 27, 1905, he burst into laughter during a session at the House of Representatives, and deeply insulted the 28-year-old representative Károly Hentz.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Hentz’s representatives approached Count Keglevich and conveyed Hentz’s desire to settle the matter through a duel.
The confrontation escalated, and István Keglevich tragically lost his life in the ensuing fight.
