Austrian cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighboring countries Italy, Hungary, Bohemia, Germany, the Balkans, as well as the former Austro-Hungarian Empire and wars in the Austrian regions. While most people only think of Viennese cuisine when they think of Austrian cuisine as a whole, there are clear differences between the traditional dishes of different regions. The following will explore the popular dishes of these regions, as well as their influences. Historical Influences of Austria Before discussing the different regions of Austria and their influences, it will first be necessary to explore the influences on Austria as a whole. The country has a very strong German influence, as evidenced by the fact that German is the country's official language and Germany is Austria's largest export and import partner (Central Intelligence Agency) . Another strong influence on Austria is its previous 50-year involvement in the Austrian-Hungarian Empire from 1867 to 1918. At that time, Austria already had a strong alliance with Germany and Austria rarely held the power over the German states during this period. In a treaty concluded by the emperor at the time, Austria was consolidated with Hungary into a single state, binding the countries together. The people of the Empire were not consulted about this act and were generally dissatisfied with it. However, throughout the remaining years of the Empire, the countries exchanged influences through their respective cultures. As the countries merged, their political distinctions quickly began to disappear and this region was often simply referred to as Austria by the end of the Empire's existence (The Editors). This German and Hungarian influence can still be found today in most parts of Austria and in its cuisine...... middle of paper ......ants or in homes. The popular energy drink Red Bull also first gained popularity in Austria, and the company's headquarters are just outside Salzburg (Austrian). There are several alcoholic drinks that are staples of Austrian culture. Austrians generally only enjoy pale lagers. The Austrian regions are known for the wine grapes they grow, and Vienna is the only European capital to grow wine grapes within its boundaries (Our Wine). Each region of Vienna grows a different type of wine grape and is known for the wine produced by these grapes. In Austria, pre-wine juice from wine production or after a harvest season is popular in Austria. These drinks are semi-fermented and retain the original flavor of the fruit juice. It is traditional that at the end of a meal, an Austrian schnapps is served and drunk (Producers & Market).