Genoels-Elderen Wine Castle
Between Tongeren and Maastricht, along the old Roman road, in the municipality of Riemst, lies Belgium's only wine castle. This is no coincidence, as the Romans already had vineyards in this region. Here, you feel as if you are in France. The wine castle of Genoels-Elderen is surrounded by some 20 hectares of vineyards. The wine produced here can easily compete with the top French wines. The marl subsoil in Riemst is comparable to that of the classic French wine regions and the climate is similar to that of Burgundy 100 years ago.
This, combined with the high quality of the vines and the intensive care of the Van Rennes family, guarantees a top-quality wine that is served in the best Belgian restaurants.
Available from Visit Bilzen-Hoeselt:
Chardonnay blue (white wine) 75cl: 20.50 euros
Rosé Parel 75cl (rosé wine): €25.60
Zwarte Parel (sparkling) 75cl: €22.50
Schorpion Wine Estate
The Schorpion estate is located on a south-facing slope in Vliermaal, the heart of the South Limburg fruit-growing region. This vineyard is mainly planted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the grape varieties used to make the best champagnes. Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois are also grown here.
The Schorpion estate produces Haspengouw wine under the “Controlled Designation of Origin” label, but what makes it unique is its production of local sparkling wine.
Available from Visit Bilzen-Hoeselt:
Brut Gold 37.5 cl: € 16