Côtes de Sambre et Meuse Wine Region

Côtes de Sambre et Meuse

Taste the Exquisites Wines of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse & Meet Some of the Skilled Belgian Winemakers

The wine region of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse is one that fully exemplifies Belgian winemaking culture. The distinct terroir and climatic conditions contribute to the production of exceptional red, white, rose, and sparkling wines of the region. 

We invite you to discover the exceptional wines that have made Côtes de Sambre et Meuse a favorite among wine lovers worldwide. 

Find out the greatest wines of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse in Wallonie, as well as the top winemakers and estates to visit in Côtes de Sambre et Meuse.  Explore our website to learn about the wine region and book a wine tour with us now. Learn more about Côtes de Sambre et Meuse Wine Tasting and Tours.

Where is the Côtes de Sambre et Meuse Wine Region?

The first Wallonian AOC, Côtes de Sambre et Meuse, was established in 2004 and is located between the rivers Sambre and Meuse, near Liège in southern Belgium.

Unique terroir of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse appellation

Nurtured by the Meuse river basin, Côtes de Sambre et Meuse was initially protected by a decree signed on 27th May 2004 by José Happart. With time, the region became famous for its excellent red wines, expressing the aromatic expression of the terroirs and grapes they are produced from. However, the maximum average yield per hectare is limited to 65 hectolitres to ensure quality production. The vineyards here enjoy pedoclimatic conditions with optimal rainfall and sunlight throughout the year, keeping the essential vine characteristics intact. In addition, the oceanic weather with continental influence makes the region favourable for many native and international vines.

History of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse wine region

A Wallonian Wine Region with Rich Winemaking History

In Belgium, viticulture and wine-growing began in the Middle Ages (around the 9th-century), had endured development in the Renaissance period and became popular in the contemporary era. Today, the controlled designation of origin offers winemaking activities in Belgium an immense reputation and credibility with wine lovers. The finest wine appellation area, located in Wallonia Belgium, is Côtes de Sambre et Meuse. It belongs to one of three renowned wine regions of Wallonia, producing high-quality wines under appellations d’origine protégée (AOP) status.

What is Côtes de Sambre et Meuse Wine?

Côtes de Sambre et Meuse is home to several wineries. 65 wineries cultivate thirty hectares of Côtes de Sambre et Meuse. Depending on the wine they make, they plant white and red grape varietals. Bronner, Chenin, Madeleine Angevine, Chardonnay, Müller-Thurgau, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and others are among the primary white varieties. On the aroma, white wine from the Côtes de Sambre et Meuse area generally exhibits notes of lemon, citrus fruit, or asparagus, as well as earth, vegetal, or tree fruit.

The region’s popular red varieties are Merlot, Regent, Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Pinot Noir Précoce. The production is not limited to AOP wines, as a few wineries also produce wines under the PDO status. On the scent, Côtes de Sambre et Meuse red wine frequently exhibits notes of cherry, oaky, or butter and aromas of blackberry, red fruit, or raspberry.

Food to Pair with Côtes de Sambre et Meuse Wine

The Cordon Bleu (Schnitzel Cordon Bleu, Escalope cordon bleu, Blue Ribbon) 

Cordon bleu is a well-known international dish that originated in Switzerland. In its simplest form, it is a breaded beef cutlet that is deep-fried in hot oil, shallow-fried in a pan, or baked in an oven. 

Two meat scallops are commonly placed on top of each other, with ham and cheese sandwiched in between. In 1949, a cookbook described cordon bleu for the first time. Today, the dish is offered in numerous versions, including veal cordon bleu, chicken cordon bleu, and cordon bleu with mushroom sauce.

Medali Kutjevaki srnei 

Kutjevaki srnei medaljoni are traditional Croatian dishes from Kutjevo. Venison, flour, mustard, red wine, sour cream, stock, parsley, grapes, white wine, lemon, cinnamon, oil, salt, and pepper are common ingredients. 

The beef is sliced into medallions and seasoned with salt and pepper before being drizzled with mustard and dusted in flour. It is fried on both sides in oil and then simmered in stock and red wine. The grapes are stewed with cinnamon and lemon slices in white wine. The medallions are served on slices of fried bread with grapes on top.

Salmon tartare 

Salmon pie is a delicious, warm, and inexpensive Canadian dish from the province of Québéc. Depending on the variant, it consists of a pie crust filled with mashed potatoes and cooked salmon, as well as spices and other ingredients such as black pepper, parsley, thyme, eggs, and onions. 

The salmon pie is then baked till golden brown in color and served with a few dollops of sour cream on top.

Places to Visit in Côtes de Sambre et Meuse

Rocher du Hat, Breathtaking Viewpoint For Hiking Lovers

One of the most magnificent views of the Semois is from the Rocher du Hat! Put on your hiking boots and leave your car in the village. A steep trail will lead you into the Hat forests, where you will be able to glimpse the famed rocks. The vistas open out as you come closer, revealing the valley. A wonderful spot for a picnic, reading, or simply reflecting on life.

Le Tombeau du Géant, Immerse The True Beauty of European Nature

Le Tombeau du Géant, also known as the Giant's grave, is one of Belgium's most important and impressive places. This picturesque area is one of the most famous examples of European natural beauty. It consists of vast valleys filled with green forests and several rivers and small lakes. It is the ideal place for those who wish to practice hiking, as there are several amazing trails where visitors can learn about the majestic nature of Belgium and see many wild animals.

Walzin Castle, Walk around the castle or kayak in the river Lesse to enjoy the views

Who doesn't adore a beautiful Belgian castle? Castle Walzin may be closed to the public, but it is nonetheless fascinating to see. It's only a 20-minute drive from Dinant and is considered one of Belgium's most beautiful castles. While the castle itself is lovely, the surrounding landscape truly sells it. Visit to take shots of the castle and river. The castle itself is private property and cannot be visited. This should not deter you from spending a day trip to this region! One of the most popular Summer activities in the neighbourhood is kayaking along the Lesse. You'll glide past the Walzin castle and make a brief halt here this way! 

Frequently Asked Questions about Côtes de Sambre et Meuse