Ortenau, located in the heart of Germany's Baden wine region, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich viticulture. This area is celebrated for its diverse terroirs, producing wine styles that range from vibrant Rieslings to velvety Spätburgunder, alongside indigenous varieties like Müller-Thurgau. Wander through the picturesque vineyards of Ortenau, and indulge in authentic tasting experiences at charming wineries across regions such as Achern, Durbach, and Oppenau, where tradition and innovation intertwine. Discover the essence of wine tourism in Ortenau, a jewel waiting to be explored.
Ortenau, historically known as Mortenau, is a wine appellation in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, located between the Rhine and the Black Forest. The picturesque wine-growing region is located on the Rhine's right bank, which spans from the upper Rhine plain to the foothills of the Forest. The region produces some of the best white wines, particularly those made from Riesling. The region features breathtaking scenery as well as ancient villages and towns. The Ortenau's highest point, Hornisgrinde, is 1164 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the valley all year.
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On the right banks of the River Rhine, the Ortenau wine growing area is spread across 60km from North to South and 30km West to East. The region lies in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg in southern Germany. The region is bordered by Rastatt from the North, Freudenstadt from the East, Schwarzwald Baar-Kreis from the southeast, and Emmendingen from the South. The region is easily accessible from major cities and towns, with Stuttgart 143km in the Northeast, and Strasbourg in French territory just 23.5km in the Northwest. The Neuweier, Zell-Weierbach, Durbach, and Berghaupten are some well recognized area in the Ortenau wine appellation.
The Ortenau was a county of the German Stem Duchy of Swabia during the medieval time and was referred to as Mordunouva. The recent name was derived from the fortress at Ortenberg which was later recreated as Ortenberg castle. King Henry II presented the Ortenae county to the Bishop of Bamberg who later delegated the castle to Zahringen, a local aristocrat. After the demise of the Zahringen in 1218, there was a conflict between the successors over the inheritance of the castle. The price bishopric of Strasbourg partially owned the castle and in 1803-1819 was included in the Grand Duchy of Baden.
The vineyards along the bank of rhine are slopes that can go up to 70% gradient. The vineyards are usually terraced in the most sloppy area. The soil is largely sandy with a granite mixture. The soil in the Neuweier region is comprised of clay, rubbles, granite, and loams. The soil mixture absorbs most of the heat during the day and radiates at night which helps in the cool climate of Germany. The black forest helps protect vines from cool winds.
The most popular grape in the Ortenau wine region is riesling which accounts for approximately 60% of total production. Other grape varieties that are authorized in the region are as follows:
Red Varietals: Pinot Noir.
White varietals: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Müller-Thurgau and Scheurube.
Schwenkbraten is a local cuisine from the state of Saarland, in the Mosel valley, Germany. The main ingredient for Schwenkbraten is pork neck that originates from the Saarland which is first marinated overnight before grilling. The grill is used in unique which is swung over an open wood fire by a schwenkmeister suspended from a tripod. Dried thyme, dried oregano, onions, salt, black pepper, garlic, juniper berries, oil, and German Riesling wine are common marinade ingredients. A well-grilled Schwenkbraten has crispy skin and juicy meat on the inside. The dish pairs well with the Ortenau wines especially riesling.
Coq au Riesling is the Alsatian version of the famous French dish, Coq au Vin. The dish is a modified version of a classic dish that has been around for centuries and is still enjoyed today. The dish is usually made of chicken, mushrooms, and shallots in a Riesling wine sauce. The tender and juicy meat with rich and luscious sauce satisfied any palate during any time of the year. Traditionally, Coq au vin is served with boiled potatoes on the side. The only thing that is different from the Coq au Vin is the use of Riesling over the red wines. Coq au Riesling can be prepared using different ingredients such as vegetables and meat, which makes it versatile enough to be enjoyed by a wide range of wines especially dry riesling wines from Ortenau.
Choucroute garnie is a typical alsatian dish that gained popularity in the Alsace region of France. Historically, the dish came from Germany and Eastern Europe but the dish was widely accepted in France and gained popularity amongst food enthusiasts. The smooth, pungent fermented cabbage known as sauerkraut serves as its foundation, and it is flavored with flavors of goose fat, onions, garlic, juniper berries, caraway, and white wine. The cabbage is typically heated with a glass of Riesling or other dry white wines or stock, as well as goose or pork fat. It can also be cooked with chopped onion and sliced apples in various recipes. Choucroute garnie is available in canned or microwaveable ready-to-eat form throughout France. In addition to the other ingredients, packed cabbage leaves are used in the Hungarian variation. Shredded cabbage can be included in the sauerkraut to make a less acidic version. The dish complements the Ortenau wines.
Bürgerpark is located on the southern edge of the old town of Offenburg just below the Grabenaalle. The park is great for adventure seekers or relaxation and enjoyable for young and old. Explore the amazing large sculpture known as Death for Love that was added to the park in 1984 and was created by Vadim Sidur, a Moscow artist. The two-story classic pavilion built in Romanesque architecture is the major attraction of the park where events take place. The pavilion is also used for weddings.
Ortenburg castle is one of the most prominent structures in the town of Ortenau. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was said to be built by the House of Zähringen to protect the Kinzig Valley. The castle is located just above the town of Ortenberg at the far end of Kinzig valley. The signpost leading to the castle can be found all over the valley. The castle underwent a major upgrade in the 15th century with defensive towers with guns around the castle. The castle was first under attack in 1678 during the Franco-Dutch war and it was when Louis XIV commanded Marshal François de Créquy to demolish the castle. The castle was reconstructed soon only to be destroyed once again in 1697. The castle we see today was constructed between 1838 and 1843 by Baron Gabriel. Today, the castle serves as a youth hostel.
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