MAIN Wine Europe Germany Hessische Bergstrasse

The German wine growing region of Hessische Bergstrasse did not exist as a separate region until 1971.

It was only then that the section of the Bergstrasse that stretches from Frankfort to Heidelberg was given an independent status as the smallest German wine region with 456ha planted... "under vine". The region is no longer the smallest, but with only about 964 acres it comes very close!

The warm winds that funnel from the Rhine through this area provide an excellent environment for all agriculture...and grape vines are no exception. With the Rhine on the west and the steep hills of the Odenwald on the east, the climate is ideal for Riesling grapes which is the main variety traditionally grown here. More than half of the area, 243ha, is devoted to Riesling production. MüllerThurgau and Silvaner are also found in the Bergstrasse wines.

Today, the wine growers of the area are beginning to produce wines made from Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris grapes, and in the deep loess soil of the lower slopes Burgundy wines are also being introduced. Almost none of the wine produced here is exported, so if you want to experience the surprising taste of the full bodied, fragrant and fruity Hessische Bergstrasse Riesling wines, you have a great reason to plan a trip!

German Wine Regions - Hessische Bergstraßen - This section of the German wine grower's site provides a simple map and brief information on the wines of the region. Links to more information on the grape varieties, reviews and German wine in general are included.

Hessische Bergstrasse in Wein-Plus Wine Guide - With a very complete modern history of the region, a discussion of the grapes and the wines produced and a map of the towns this site is a great resource. Click through to "All wineries in wine region Hessische Bergstrasse" for a listing of wineries by village including the number of different wines each produces.

Hessische Bergstrasse - This brief summary of the region provided by the German Embassy is surprisingly complete, with climate, grape varieties, wines produced, soil and other geographical information, driving directions.

Come and See the Bergstrasse - This article explores the region, with descriptions of wine events and places for tourists to explore.

also see -> Ahr | Baden | Franken | Mittelrhein | Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

Nahe | Pfalz | Rhinegau | Rhinehessen | Saale-Unstrut

Sachsen | Württemberg