📍 Neszmély

Neszmély is a small wine area in north-western Hungary, on the right bank of the Danube, near the Slovak border. It is part of Northern Transdanubia. The hills are low, and the nearby Danube softens the climate and brings a warm autumn.

The area specialises in white wines. The main grapes are Irsai Olivér (an aromatic Muscat-scented grape bred in Hungary), Olaszrizling (Welschriesling) and Sauvignon Blanc. Wines are usually light and aromatic and drunk young. Other grapes, including reds, are also grown.

Soils are loess and clay. The area is small, but modern wineries work here and make varietal wines.

The area lies close to the Danube and is convenient for a trip of a day or two. The neighbouring Esztergom-Nagymaros area lies close by, and across the Danube is Slovakia. Light whites from Neszmély go well with river fish, salads and light appetisers. The area suits a short trip from Budapest or Vienna: the road along the Danube is pretty, and the cellars of Neszmély welcome guests for tastings.