Kaiserstuhl Wine Region

Kaiserstuhl is a major wine-growing region in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany's southwesternmost state. The region is largely made up of hills, including a series of volcanic hills on the Rhine River's banks. The Kaiserstuhl area of Baden, Germany, is known for its robust red wines and is a prominent wine appellation recognized among wine enthusiasts. The area is one of the sunniest and hottest in Germany, producing exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc. The region is also known as the "Home of Three Pinots." Approximately 90% of the wines of Kaiserstuhl are manufactured by Badischer Winzerkeller co-operative.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Kaiserstuhl!

Where is the Kaiserstuhl wine region?

Kaiserstuhl is a cluster of volcanic hills, northwest of Freiburg and on the eastern banks of the Rhine river, in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg, in southwest Germany. The wine appellation is close to the French border just 7.7km east. The wine appellation is 185km southwest of Stuttgart, 85km west of Villingen-Schwenningen, and 85km North of Basel. Burkheim, Oberrotweil, Achkarren, and Ihringen are highly regarded in German culture, not only for their picturesque landscape but also for the high-quality wine they produce.

History of the Kaiserstuhl wine region

Kaiserstuhl means "emperor's seat," and its history dates back to 994 AD when a monarch held court in this settlement. It is believed that the Katzenelnbogen developed viticulture in the 12th century in the region. Wine growing on the Kaiserstuhl was most likely done during Roman times, and it has been documented from 769 (Bötzingen).

Many of today's viticulture regulations are founded on a long tradition. Thus, in 795, Charlemagne decreed in his “Capitulare villis”:

The terroir and geography of the Kaiserstuhl wine region

Most of the area of the Kaiserstuhl is hills that were formed due to volcanic activities. The alkali-carbonate rock formation is supposed to have formed this mountain range. With the tallest peak rising above 550 meters above sea level, the hills are discovered to have formed just a few kilometers from the river. The terrain of the Kaiserstuhl is defined by volcanic worn soils on steep slopes and soft soil in stunning tiered landscapes. The Kaiserstuhl district is reported to have a Mediterranean climate, with milder winters, and is the warmest area in all of Germany. 

Popular grape varieties from the Kaiserstuhl wine region

The most dominant grape variety in the Kaiserstuhl wine appellation is Pinot Noir. The region is largely plated with burgundy vines. In addition to Burgundy, additional grape types such as Müller-Thurgau and Silvaner are planted, as well as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Red Varietals:Pinot Noir, and Muscat.

White Varietals:Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Silvaner, and Müller-Thurgau.

Food to pair with Kaiserstuhl wine 

Bœuf bourguignon

Beef bourguignon is a slow-cooked beef stew commonly made in French cuisine with Burgundy wines. Beef, onion, carrots, celery, and flour are common ingredients in the recipe. Before adding the remaining ingredients, the beef is fried in butter or oil. Boeuf bourguignon is frequently accompanied by cooked potatoes or noodles.

The dish is not a traditional Burgundy cuisine; rather, the use of wine explains the name. The dish was originally documented in 1867 and was frequently cooked with leftover meat. At the turn of the twentieth century, the dish was acknowledged as a Burgundian specialty.

Because of the long cooking time, the tastes of the meal are deep, nuanced, and hearty. The robust Aloxe-Corton wines complement this dish perfectly.

Paella

Paella, a traditional dish in Spain, is a one-pot dinner cooked with saffron-flavored rice. Additional components, such as meat, fish, or vegetables, may be used. Paella originated in Valencia, according to folklore, and was cooked with seasonal vegetables, poultry, rabbit, and occasionally snails. Paella is the name given to the majority of rice meals in Spain today. The dish is traditionally served in a little pan that may also be used to cook in.

Paella features a crispy bottom layer of caramelized rice known as socorrat because it is cooked in a big and shallow pan. The dinner varies by restaurant since authentic versions take more time and skill. Paella complements white Monstant wines.

Chorizo

Chorizo is a Spanish sausage very similar to the Portuguese chouriço made of chopped pork meat and fat that has been seasoned with paprika and, occasionally, garlic. Chorizos are fermented and cured in Europe. Some chorizo sausages are not fermented and cured and must be cooked before consumption. Even though both Spanish chorizo and Portuguese chouriço receive their smokiness and rich red color from dried, smoked red peppers, they are very different sausages. Chorizo is an adaptable sausage that can be sliced, fried, grilled, cooked in liquids, or used as a pizza topping. These sausages go well with red wines from Kaiserstuhl. 

Places to visit in the Kaiserstuhl wine region

Saint Blaise Abbey

The Benedictine Monastery of Saint Blaise Abbey is located in the hamlet of St. Blasien in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The Rheinau Abbey is thought to have stood at the place of Saint Blaise Abbey around the 9th century. During the early 11th century, St. Blaise was claimed to have a relationship with the Cluniac abbey of Italy and served as a significant monastery for monks and nuns. The Bishops of Basle provided imperial protection to the abbey. The abbey was purchased by the four imperial lordships of town and continued to operate as a Christian center. The abbey was converted into one of Germany's first industries in the 17th century. The structure was destroyed by fire in 1768 and reconstructed in Neoclassical style. The castle is still included in the Swiss Heritage Inventory.

Kaiserstuhl Village walk

Kaiserstuhl Village has been designated as a part of Swiss Heritage sites for its historical, cultural, and architectural significance. The former St. Blasien monastery administration house at Hauptstrasse 35, the Mayenfisch at Rheingasse, the Upper Tower, and the city walls are all listed as Swiss historic monuments of national significance. Kaiserstuhl is initially documented as domino Arnoldo de Keiserstul between 1227 and 1234. It was known as de Kayserstule in 1236. When the Bishop of Constance was banished from the Constance in 1365-66 and 1384-85, the town functioned as a shelter for the Bishop. Eight regionally themed pathways allow you to thoroughly explore the Kaiserstuhl.

Frequently asked questions about Kaiserstuhl