📍 Haspengouw

Haspengouw is a wine zone in eastern Belgium, in the province of Limburg in Flanders, on a rolling plain south of Hasselt. It is part of Flanders. The land is known as “Belgium's fruit orchard”: there are many apple, pear and cherry trees, and vineyards share space with orchards.

The climate is mild and oceanic, with cool summers and mild winters. Soils are loess and clay, and the hills give good sunlight. Winegrowing in Belgium has grown noticeably in recent decades.

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are grown and made into still and sparkling wines. The cool climate gives fresh wines with high acidity, and sparkling wines are regarded as the area's strength. White, red and rosé wines are also made.

Volumes are small and wines are mostly sold locally, but Haspengouw estates welcome visitors, making the area pleasant for a short trip. The borders with the Netherlands and Wallonia run close by, where new vineyards are appearing too. Haspengouw sparkling wine is served as an aperitif, and Chardonnay with fish, shellfish and soft cheeses. The area is especially pretty when the fruit trees bloom in April, and after the harvest fruit and wine festivals take place. It is a pleasant destination for a day trip from Brussels or Liège.