Located in Zala County and known today as the Balatonmelléke or Balaton Wine Region, this is one of the biggest wine producing regions in Hungary. Its location, on the western end of Lake Balaton, ensures a moderate climate, well-suited for growing grapes. The first grapevines were planted by the Romans and the first written documents about winemaking date back to the 14th century.
Grape Varieties
The region typically produces bright white wines, rich in acids. Olaszrizling (Italian Riesling) is the dominant variety here, planted on almost half of the vineyards. Other important types are Rizlingszilváni, Zala Gyöngye and Zöldveltelini.
Zala Wines
Notable whites from the region are: Olaszrizling (Italian Riesling) and Zala Gyöngye
Getting there from Budapest
Zalegerszeg, the main town in Zala County is a two-and-half hour drive from Budapest. Take Highway M7 to exit 170. Continue on route 76 until Zalaegerszeg. Buses leave from the Népliget bus terminal. Trains leave from both, the Déli and Keleti railway stations.
