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From its first introduction by the Romans a thousand years ago -- to various invasions, world wars, and a takeover by the Soviet Union -- the history of Hungarian wine has certainly had its ups and downs.

Today, drawing on its glory days of success in the 19th century, Hungary is once again emerging as a modern 'player' in the Europen wind industry.

In European vineyards and throughout the world the trend to growing more red grapes has been rising to meet the demand for affordable quality wines.

In Hungary the indigenous Kadarka and other common Central European varieties like Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) and Zweigelt are sharing their terroir with Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and other international varieties.

This experimentation with new varieties, modern viticulture and updated production methods combined with the centuries old Hungarian wine traditions is bringing some excellent single and blended wines to the world table. Names like Egri Bikaver have become familiar sound in wine circles.

But Hungary has not abandoned its traditiional white wines... Tokaj's Furmint and Hárslevelü, Zöld Veltlini (Grüner Veltliner), Riesling and Olaszrizling (Welschriesling) are still getting plenty of attention and Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris are becoming more popular throughout the white wine regions.

More about Hungarian wineries around the Web:

Introduction to Hungarian Wine - Check out a simple map and a very good introduction to wine and its history in Hungary supplemented with tasting notes and pronunication guides.

Wine Regions in Hungary - Check out this handy guide to all 22 Hungarian wine regions with maps and quick facts on grapes grown nand wines produced.