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Eastern Europe

A Source of Hidden Treasure
For many years, Eastern European wines were consider the poor relations to the more aristocratic wines of France, Italy, Spain, and other wine-producers - but these days, countries such as Bulgaria, Hungary and the Czech republic can consider themselves as equals to their more western counterparts!

Bulgaria
After a troubled time following the collapse of the Soviet bloc in 1989, Bulgaria's wine industry is finding its feet again, and is producing some fine white wines - most notably Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc - but the best of Bulgaria tends to be red Cabernet or Merlot. However regional varieties, such as Mavrud, Gamza and Melnik, are also worth a try. For other good quality wines, track down those from regions such as Iambol, Svischtov, Sliven, Shumen, Russe and Suhindol.

Hungary
If you're after a popular and fruity white wine, you can't do better than to choose a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay from the Neszmely or Gyongyos estates - and Tokaji is a good bet as well. About 70% of Hungary's wine is white, from grapes such as Olasz Rizling, though there are others such as Furmint, Muscat Ottonel and Tramini. Red wine grapes include Kadarka, Merlot and Pinot Noir - and emerging wine regions include Lake Balaton, Neszmely and Villany.

Romania
Whilst Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir grapes have been grown successfully in Romania for over a century, there are some delightful local varieties such as Feteasca Regala, Feteasca Alba and Tamaiioasa Romaneasca, all of which make excellent white wines, whilst Feteasca Neagra is a very promising red. The Carpathian Mountains produce excellent Pinot Noir and Merlot, whilst the Murfatlar region, on the Black Sea Coast, produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Look out for Transylvanian white wines as well.