Home of the Kékfrankos: a culinary adventure in the Sopron Wine District

‘Poncichter’ – back in the olden days, this was the name of the wine-growers who lived in the one of the most famous wine districts in Hungary. The word comes from the German term ‘Bohnenzüchter’, meaning bean-grower, because the farmers grew beans between the vine stocks. This was firstly because it was good for the grapes, and secondly because it was how they could make up for their losses in case the vines were damaged by frost. This wine region has a long series of traditions that are worth discovering. The wine types you will find here include the famous Kékfrankos and Sauvignon blanc. As you walk around, you may wonder why some houses have pine boughs tied with either red or white ribbons. In fact, this is to let passers-by know what kind of wine that particular house is selling: red or white. While we are on the topic of traditions... As you roam the streets of this little town, which lies on the famous Amber Road, be prepared for a twist when you order wine biscuits: locals will give you bean scones, fish soup from Fertő, bean soup with plum and roast goose liver to accompany the wonderful wine.

Fans of gastronomy will never get bored in this wine district where, back in the 18th century, Maria Theresa had some Burgundy vine stocks brought over from France. Before you leave, make sure you try the famous Winzer cabbage or the ‘babsterc’ (i.e. polenta with beans) and stew made with red wine. After the hearty main courses, end your meal with a delicious chestnut mousse from Sopron. The children will enjoy a tour in the state-of-the-art local chocolate factory, where you can even taste the chocolate.

According to local legend, Kékfrankos (Blue Frankish) wine was given its name because local poncichters only accepted blue coloured francs from the soldiers of Napoleon in exchange for their red wine. Though the story sounds believable at first, it is not true, since at the time of Napoleon, they primarily made white wine in the region.