Villany (also known as Villany-Siklos) is located in the southwest of Hungary, just west of the famous Danube River. Villany is approximately 140 miles south of Budapest and very close to the nation’s border with Croatia. The most famous wines from Villany include structured, elegant and full-bodied wines made from red Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

In addition to these Bordeaux varietals, local Hungarian grapes such as Kékfrankos, Kadarka, Zweigelt and Portugieser are also popular. The best wines are made with Cabernet Franc. Wine critics have described these wines as being polished and velvety, almost opulent, in character. In fact, Villany has become one of the premier locations in the world for growing Cabernet Franc. The region’s unique twists on classic Bordeaux varietals can lead to some world-class elegant wines.

In terms of climate, Villany has a sub-Mediterranean climate that is warm – but not nearly as warm as the typical continental climate found elsewhere in southern Hungary. Long, hot summers are followed by only mild winters. A big factor in the climate of the region is the long, low line of hill ridges that extend east to west for 12 miles or more around Villany.

In recent years, wine tourism in Villany has become fashionable. This is primarily due to the region’s proximity to Budapest, which is just two hours away. Typical wine tours will lead participants on wine cellars and wineries in the small towns of Villany (such as Pécs), and include a visit to places like the medieval castle in Siklos.