Explore unique vineyards in the Netherlands
Sipping a glass of wine among the vines, while overlooking rolling fields as the sun slowly sets; it sounds like a holiday in France or Italy, but you can now also enjoy this experience in the Netherlands. In this episode of Orange Horizons, you’ll explore five special vineyards scattered across the country, from Groningen to South Limburg.
The Netherlands is rapidly developing as a wine destination. Due to climate change, innovative winemakers and new grape varieties, you will find more and more winemakers that welcome visitors for tastings, tours and overnight stays among the vines. And each region comes with its own unique atmosphere, landscape and flavour profile.
- Explore five special Dutch vineyards.
- Sample delicious Dutch wines, from Groningen to Limburg.
- Combine wine tasting with nature and overnight stays.
🎧Listen to the episode about vineyards in the Netherlands.
The journey begins in the north of the Netherlands, at Wijngaard de Frysling, where they produce refreshing white and sparkling wines. The sparkling Bruiswijn is a particularly good example of how much Dutch sparkling wine has developed. Visitors can take part in monthly tours and tastings.
Further west, in North Holland, lies Wijngaard De Koen. What once started as a hobby has grown into a fully-fledged vineyard with a strong focus on personal attention. Particularly noteworthy is the dessert wine Nagenieten, made from dried grapes that give it a concentrated, sweet flavour. Due to limited production, reservations to taste or purchase this wine are often necessary.
Red wine to be taken seriously
At Betuws Wijndomein, located in the middle of the country near the river Linge, it’s all about craftsmanship and experimentation. In addition to classic wines, they also develop non-alcoholic alternatives. The oak-aged Linge Rood red wine is proof that Dutch reds are to be taken increasingly seriously as well.
In Zeeland, you’ll find Wijnhoeve De Kleine Schorre, one of the largest vineyards in the Netherlands. Here, wine is not only about tasting, but also about gastronomy. The wines are deliberately developed in combination with top-quality regional Zeeland products such as oysters and shellfish. Visitors can participate in group tastings, attend events or even stay overnight on the vineyard's grounds.
The journey ends in South Limburg at De Apostelhoeve, located on the slopes of the Louwberg near Maastricht. Overlooking the rolling countryside and the city, this vineyard is known for elegant white wines and sparkling varieties. The area feels almost foreign and shows why Limburg is still at the heart of Dutch viticulture.
Plan your trip in advance
Always book tastings in advance, as many vineyards work with limited availability or by appointment only. Also, visit multiple regions to properly experience the differences between Dutch wine regions - from the refreshing northern wines to the lush, hilly wine culture in Limburg. And perhaps the most important tip: always sample a local speciality from the vineyard itself, such as a sparkling wine, dessert wine, or a food and wine pairing including delicious regional produce.
Want to know where to sample the best Dutch wines and which regions are absolute must-sees? Listen to the episode using the player above or via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Podimo and Pocket Casts.
