St. Martin’s Day in Pannonhalma wine region

Are you based in Hungary and miss your family? Take part in the St. Martin’s Day “fiesta” at Babarczi in a tiny town near the city of Győr and you will feel at home, guaranteed! Babarczi Vineyard and Winery has collected several national and international gold medals and many top restaurants listed their wines, but the best experience is still to visit them and enjoy a true “Babarczi-party” with mouth-watering food and wines, warm and cosy atmosphere, laughter and dance.

Duck rillettes cover photo and recipe here by Chef Charlie
Babarczi Rhine Riesling in the cover photo pairs well with the fatty rillettes due to its crispy, brilliant acidity and elevating fruit profile.

Why on St. Martin’s Day?
Because wineries have their doors wide open at the weekend closest to St. Martin’s name day (11 November).

Why do we eat duck and goose dishes on St. Martin’s Day?
Scroll down for the answer.

What happens at Babarczi estate on the 8th of November?
Visitors can choose between 4 time slots to participate in a tasting of 5 wines accompanied by duck rillettes (by Izsóp restaurant) and fresh bread.

Tasting time options and prices
– 12.50-14.35 – 6500 HUF
– 14.50-16.35 – 6500 HUF
– 16.50-18.35 – 8000 HUF
– 18.50-20.35 – 8000 HUF
The afternoon tastings are slightly more expensive, because from 5 pm live music will be provided by a duo called AcouStone.
If you must drive, the same price applies, but you can take a bottle home.

How to book?
Write an email to the winery and don’t forget to mention the time slot you prefer.

Why do we eat duck and goose dishes on St. Martin’s Day?

Saint Martin has a special importance for Hungarians, since the famous bishop was born in the province of Savaria in 316 in the Roman Empire, in the territory of Hungary. Savaria is now called Szombathely, a city of about 90 000 inhabitants, and the church stands at his presumable birthday to commemorate him.
As a teenager, he became Christian to his father’s dislike. His father was a soldier of the Roman Empire and made his son to join the army as well. According to the legend once Martin cut his coat with his sword and gave half of it to a beggar in the street who had been robbed of his clothes. At the age of 22, Martin baptized, and devoted all his life to God. He founded the first monastery in Europe. He was so modest, that – as the legend says – he hid among the geese to avoid being made a bishop. As a memory to his modest character, people eat dishes made of goose or duck on his name day on (and around) 11 November.

More about Babarczi Vineyard and Winery