Austrian cuisine is strongly influenced by neighboring countries: Italy, Hungary, Bohemia, Germany, the Balkans, as well as by the former Austro-Hungarian Empire and wars in the Austrian regions. While most people think only of Viennese cuisine when they think of Austrian cuisine as a whole, there are distinct differences in the traditional dishes of different regions. Below we will explore popular dishes from these regions, as well as their influences. Historical Influences of Austria Before delving into the individual regions of Austria and their influences, the first to explore will be that of Austria as a whole. The country has a very strong German influence, highlighted by the fact that German is the country's official language and the fact that Germany is Austria's largest export and import partner (Central Intelligence Agency). Also a strong influence on Austria is its previous 50-year involvement in the Austro-Austrian army. Hungarian Empire from 1867 to 1918. During this period, Austria already had a strong alliance with Germany and during this time period Austria rarely held power over the German states. During a treaty made by the emperor at the time, Austria was united with Hungary as a single state, merging the countries together. The people of the Empire were not consulted about this act, nor were they generally satisfied with it. However, during the remaining years of the Empire, the countries exchanged influences through their respective cultures. As the countries merged together, their political distinctions soon began to disappear and this area was often called simply Austria at the end of the Empire's existence (The Editors). This German and Hungarian influence can still be found today in most regions of Austria and in its cuisine... in the middle of paper... in ants or in houses. The popular energy drink Red Bull also first gained popularity in Austria, and the company's headquarters are located just outside Salzburg (Austria). There are several alcoholic drinks that are staples of Austrian culture. Austrians generally only appreciate lager beers. The regions of Austria are famous for the wine grapes they grow, and Vienna is the only European capital that grows wine grapes within its city limits (Our Wine). Each region of Vienna grows a different type of wine grape and is known for the wine those grapes produce. Popular in Austria is pre-wine juice obtained from wine production or after the harvest season. These drinks are semi-fermented and still retain the original flavor of the fruit juice. It is tradition that an Austrian grappa is served and drunk at the end of the meal (Producers & Market).