“Heady” history: 850 years of wine growing in Saxony

A great variety of wines can be experienced all year round in Saxony, particularly during the many wine festivals in autumn. 

Centuries of experience, favourable climate and soils create ideal conditions for one of the smallest wine-growing regions in Europe, covering only 511 hectares, and tended by 1,860 winegrowers. Dozens of grape varieties grow in the Elbland, including Saxon Müller-Thurgau, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Dornfelder and Traminer. Very special indeed is the rare Goldriesling, only grown in Saxony.

The Saxon Wine Route and the Saxon Wine Trail
Launched in 1992, the Saxon Wine Route stretches over 55 km of river landscapes and architectural treasures. The first vines are visible near Pirna, followed by Pillnitz and various Elbe castles. The route continues alongside picturesque vineyards, passing by the taverns of Radebeul, Coswig and Meissen – with the romantic village of Diesbar-Seusslitz being a highlight. Visitors also have the possibility of taking the Elbe cycling trail.
www.dresden-elbland.de/weinstrasse

Wine and hiking fans will love the Saxon Wine Trail, which combines nature, panoramas and urban experiences in Dresden, Pirna, Radebeul and Meissen. In Radebeul’s Hoflößnitz wine estate, the Saxon Wine Museum tells all about Saxon grapes. Information boards with QR codes inform visitors on the history of wineries, sights and accommodation. 

Wines with character
Visitors will also discover that Schloss Proschwitz lies on hillside vineyards that have been cultivated for over 850 years. Meanwhile, Wackerbarth Castle in Radebeul is Europe’s first adventure winery. In its premises, visitors experience a combination of baroque grounds, picturesque vineyards and modern production methods. The “Best Sparkling Wine Producer in Germany 2018” also plays host to exciting events throughout the year.

TIP: Why not also try the new offerings from the young creative winemaker Matthias Schuh in his Sörnewitz winery.

Saxony is the Official Culture Destination of ITB Berlin NOW 2021. The most important meeting point for immersing in Saxony’s cultural offerings is the digital Culture Café from 9-12/3/21 with interviews, videos, music and presentations.

Photo: View over the vineyards to Radebeul