Explore the Balkan wine regions
Undiscovered Wine Gems
Uncover the hidden wine treasures on our blog. Explore lesser-known vineyards, savour unique local varietals, and gather inspiration for your next off-the-beaten-path journey!
Slovakia
Uncover Slovakia's secret treasure for wine enthusiasts and delve into the unique Slovak wine regions.
Hungary
Explore Hungary's wine culture. Enjoy tastings and discover why it's a top destination for wine enthusiasts.
Moldova
Uncover the warmth of the Moldovan hospitality and the rich flavours of its wines.
Explore the Wine Regions of Slovakia, Hungary, and Moldova on Our Blog. Explore distinctive vineyards, discover exceptional local wines, and get inspired for your upcoming holiday!
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Winery tours
Take a guided tour to see vineyards in these authentic countries. Visit the cellars, taste excellent wines directly from the source, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich winemaking traditions!
Explore the beautiful Cricova wine cellars
Hi, I’m Sven, one of this blog's owners. In 2022, I visited Cricova Winery, a magical underground city of wine in Moldova. Join me as I share my unforgettable journey through history, wine, and wonder!
About us
Why Grapes & Getaways?
We made this wine blog because we all love one thing: wine. Our focus is to inform you about these new undiscovered wine countries and show you the pure quality of them. To learn more about the founders behind this wine blog, click here.
Find answers to your questions
What grape varieties are native to these regions?
Slovakia: Devín, Dunaj, and Alibernet are local specialties.
Moldova: Fetească Albă, Fetească Neagră, and Rară Neagră are indigenous.
Hungary: Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Kadarka are traditional Hungarian varieties.
What are the largest wine cellars in these countries?
Moldova: Cricova and Mileștii Mici have some of the largest underground wine cellars globally, with extensive networks of tunnels.
Hungary: The Budafok cellar system in Budapest is a notable example.
Slovakia: The Tokaj wine cellars are among the most famous in the country.
When is the best time to visit these wine regions?
The best time to visit is during the harvest season in September and October, when wineries often host festivals and tastings. Spring and summer are also great for vineyard tours.
What food pairs well with wines from these regions?
Slovakia: Pair white wines like Devín with bryndzové halušky (sheep cheese dumplings).
Moldova: Red wines like Fetească Neagră complement traditional dishes like plăcintă (savory pastry).
Hungary: Tokaji Aszú pairs beautifully with foie gras, while Egri Bikavér is ideal for goulash.
Can I buy wine from these countries internationally?
Are there any wine festivals in these countries?
Slovakia: The Bratislava Wine Festival is a key event.
Moldova: The National Wine Day, held in October, is the largest celebration of Moldovan wine.
Hungary: The Budapest Wine Festival in September is a must-attend for wine enthusiasts.
Are these countries save
Both Hungary and Slovakia have received a travel safety rating of 1 out of 5, indicating that safety concerns are minimal. In Moldova, it is advised to avoid the Transnistria region due to its ties with Russia. However, the remainder of Moldova is generally safe, although it is recommended to travel with a guide.
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