The best wines from Saxony in Germany

Sachsen is the easternmost wine region of Germany and accounts for no more than 1% of German wine production. You will therefore not quickly find wines from Sachsen here. If you do find one, it may be a wine from the rare Goldriesling or the Elbling grape.

The last wine region in eastern Germany, seen from the west, is Saxony. Just like in Saale-Unstrut, the vineyards are once again receiving the attention they need to produce nice wines after the Fall of the Wall. They already knew in the 12th century that the terroir is suitable for this.

Viticulture is mainly concentrated on the northeastern hills along the Elbe. The advantages of water near vineyards are also noticeable here. The Elbe reflects sunlight and retains heat. This is also necessary with a continental climate. The summer has enough warm days. But the severe frost in the winter months has the potential to reduce the yields of the vine. Good for concentration. Fortunately, there are also enough mountains in the area around the Elbe to moderate the influence of the winter somewhat.

The wines from Saxony have a slightly lower acidity than the wines from Saale-Unstrut. However, they are somewhat more neutral in terms of aromas. The white grape varieties predominate, with the Müller-thurgau in the lead, followed by Riesling and Weissburgunder. A unique feature in Saxony is the grape ‘Goldriesling’. It is a cross between Riesling and Courtillier Musqué, which originates from the French Alsace. Fresh wines, exotic fruit and a hint of muscat.

Another, unusual grape is the Elbling. Only in the Mosel they are not surprised by this grape, which is processed into light, still or sparkling wines. In addition to the cheerful, not very complex white, red wines are also made from Spätburgunder, Früburgunder and Portugieser.

You will not quickly find these wines on the shelves of the supermarket. With only 1% of the total German wine production, wines from Saxony are quite scarce.