📍 Côtes de Sambre et Meuse

Côtes de Sambre et Meuse is a small wine appellation in southern Belgium, in Wallonia, on the slopes of the valleys of the Sambre and Meuse rivers. Belgian winemaking is young and very small, but has a long history: grapes were grown here as early as the Middle Ages.

Hills along the rivers warm in the sun, and the water softens the climate. Overall the climate is cool and humid, so early-ripening varieties suit best. The main grapes are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as Auxerrois, Pinot Gris and Müller-Thurgau. Disease-resistant hybrids are also used. White, red and rosé wines are made from them, as well as quality sparkling wines by the classic method.

The appellation (PDO) covers vineyards in the provinces of Namur and Hainaut. Many estates are small and family-run, and the wine sells mostly in Belgium.

Côtes de Sambre et Meuse is part of Wallonia and of Belgian winemaking. French Champagne and the Ardennes lie nearby, as well as Luxembourg, and the wines resemble those of neighbouring cool areas. The region's sparkling wines make a good aperitif, and the whites suit fish and cheese. The name Côtes de Sambre et Meuse on a label shows that the grapes grew in this very area, which makes it easy to look for similar wines.