Europe's unexpected new wine destination
A remarkable transformation is taking place in one of Europe’s most unexpected wine destinations. The Netherlands, long celebrated for tulips and windmills, has emerged as an exciting new viticultural region.
All over the country, from northern Groningen to the south of Zeeland and coastal South Holland to Gelderland, you’ll discover vineyards thriving in this compact yet diverse landscape. For 20 years, small and large wine estates have been quietly revolutionizing Dutch agriculture, creating a wine culture emphasizing both quality and sustainability.
The Dutch wine scene’s strong commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility is particularly compelling. Dutch winemakers aren’t using only traditional methods; they’re pioneering new approaches that could influence winemaking across Europe and beyond.
In the Netherlands, traditionally characterized by cool, wet weather, climate change is dramatically altering this narrative. Extreme weather patterns bring challenges like drought and excessive rainfall, but also an unexpected gift: increased sunshine hours that are transforming the country’s viticultural potential. Rising average temperatures and extended growing seasons mean that grape varieties once exclusive to France and Germany are now flourishing on Dutch soil.
Adaptation to changing conditions is perhaps best exemplified by De Apostelhoeve, the oldest and most renowned Dutch winery. The Hulst family, stewards of this estate for generations, boldly decided to adapt their vineyards to the evolving climate. Their latest triumph is successfully cultivating viognier, a grape variety that traditionally thrives in the warmth of southern France. This fruity, aromatic wine represents the innovative spirit that defines modern Dutch winemaking.
The emergence of Flevoland as a serious wine region is a fascinating development. This province, created from reclaimed seabed, offers a unique landscape that’s ideal for viticulture. Wineries such as El Placer in Lelystad and Wijngoed Wilgenhorst in Zeewolde are crafting distinctive Flevoland wines that showcase the potential of this young, fertile soil combined with innovative growing techniques and abundant sunshine.
Dutch innovation extends beyond grape growing to wine production itself. Recognizing health concerns about sulfites (preservatives used in winemaking), forward-thinking producers like Sint Martinus in Vijlen and The Colonjes in Groesbeek have conducted groundbreaking research into healthier alternatives. Their efforts are yielding promising results that could influence global winemaking practices.
The Netherlands stands apart as a wine destination that is perfect for active tourism. Its extensive network of cycling paths and walking routes makes vineyard-hopping both accessible and enjoyable. Wine routes through Gelderland and South Limburg offer carefully designed experiences that combine the pleasure of wine tasting with the joy of exploring the Dutch countryside on foot or by bike.
