Beans among the grapes
‘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.