Remstal Wine Region Guide

Remstal wine appellation lies in the south east of the Baden-Württemberg region. The Ostalbkreis, Rems-Murr-Kreis, and Ludwigsburg district make up the about 78-kilometer long river valley of the Rems.. It stretches from the Rems's source in Essingen to where it meets the Neckar close to Neckarrems. It is distinguished for its diverse environment and esteemed for its wines. Along with a significant portion of the natural river valley, there are sizable vineyards, grazing orchards, pastures, and woodlands. A rich history and culture are present in the cities and villages that line the valley, and they warmly welcome you to come and enjoy them.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Remstal!

Where is the Remstal wine region?

Remstal wine region is stretched across the river valley of the Rems just east of Stuttgart in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The region encompasses the districts of Ostalbkreis, Rems-Murr-Kreis, and Ludwigsburg along the 78km long area. The wine region is close to the state capital and is one of the most visited wine regions in Germany. The Remstal wine appellation is further divided into 5 major vineyards; Weinsteige, Sonnenbühl, Wartbühl, Hohenneuffen, and Kopf. While visiting the Remstal wine area, explore the picturesque countryside and historic towns.

The terroir and geography of the Remstal wine region

The soils are distinguished by Keuper formations and shell limestone islands on the middle Neckar. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 239-493 meters above sea level. The continental climate features hot summers, sunny autumns, and icy winters. Red wines are well suited to the favorable microclimate of the Neckar as well as the shell limestone and Keuper soils. The viticulture develops from a minor source river to a significant Neckar tributary close to Stuttgart, the state capital, from Essingen on the Swabian Jura to the mouth of the Neckar near Remseck.

Popular grape varieties from the Remstal wine region

Like many wine regions in the Württemberg region, the major grape variety in Remstal is Riesling as well. Other grape varieties that grow here are Trollinger, Lemberger, Schwarzriesling, Pinot Noir, Kerner and Muller-Thurgau. The Remstal region produces approximately 67% red varieties and 33% white varieties. 

Food to pair with Remstal wine 

Roast Goose

Roast goose is a well-known dish found in China, Europe, and the Middle East. The dish is said to have originated in China and is considered a Hong Kong national treasure. This recipe has several variations and is popular all around the world. To guarantee equal cooking on all sides, the seasoned goose is roasted over a dry fire. The best roast goose has crisp skin and a rich inside. Traditionally, roasting is done over charcoal, which gives the flavor a smokiness. Slices of the dish are frequently served with garnishes and sauce.

Coq au Riesling

The Alsatian equivalent of the famous French dish Coq au Vin is Coq au Riesling. The dish is a modified version of a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for ages. Typically, the dish consists of chicken, mushrooms, and shallots in a Riesling wine sauce. The soft and juicy beef combined with the thick and sweet sauce delighted any palate at any time of year. Coq au vin is traditionally served with cooked potatoes on the side. The sole difference between this and Coq au Vin is the use of Riesling instead of red wine. Coq au Riesling can be cooked with a variety of components, including vegetables and meat, making it versatile enough to pair with a wide range of wines, particularly dry riesling wines from Remstal.

Ente in Bier

Ente in Bier is a traditional German dish made mostly of duck and black beer. Chicken stock, garlic, butter, flour, marjoram, onions, anchovy paste, parsley, celery, bay leaves, thyme, and salt are all traditional ingredients. This dish's preparation is easy and basic. The duck is first chopped into pieces and seasoned with salt. The floured and seasoned pieces are then fried in butter in a skillet. The black beer and other ingredients are added after the duck has been fried on all sides. Cook until the duck is soft. Simply add flour and water to a mixing dish to produce the gravy. The dish is hot and served with gravy.

Places to visit in the Remstal wine region

Lorch monastery

Lorch monastery is one of the key historical locations for the Staufer representing the birthplace of the dynasty. The monastery was once an Imperial Abbey in Lorsch just 10km east of Worms. The monastery is most renowned since the Carolingian Empire which was built in the Pre-Romanesque-Carolingian style. The monastery is located on a hill over the Rems Valley that is visible from afar. It is said to be built in 1102 by the Staufen dynasty as a burial site. The monastery was dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Many miracles were reported to have occurred through the intercession of Saint Nazarius at Lorsch, and pilgrims from all over Europe came to visit the site in enormous numbers. The structures were damaged due to the Thirty years' war. Even the ruins remain the most important building in Germany. 

Schwäbisch Gmünd

Schwäbisch Gmünd is a historical city in the state of Baden-Württemberg in eastern Germany. Schwäbisch Gmünd was a self-governing free imperial city from the 13th century until its annexation to Württemberg in 1802. The town is located on the Rems river in the northern foothills of the Swabian Jura Mountains, about 50 kilometers east of Stuttgart. The town is well-known for its distinctive sense of beauty, crafts, architecture, design, jewelry, and culture. The town has a mix of buildings built during the last eight centuries. City hall, Holy Cross Minster, and the Church of Saint John are also notable structures.

Frequently asked questions about Remstal