📍 Saxony

Saxony is one of the northernmost and smallest wine regions of Germany, in the east of the country. Vineyards run along the slopes of the Elbe between Dresden and Meissen, and along the Elster river. It is part of German winemaking. The region includes the districts of Meißen and Elstertal.

The Elbe slopes are steep, with terraces and stone walls. Soils are granite, gneiss and loess. The climate is cool and continental, so frosts can be severe and yields are small. The river moderates the climate, and sun-facing slopes help the grapes ripen.

The main grapes are Müller-Thurgau, Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Traminer; Goldriesling, a cross found mostly in Saxony, is also grown. Wines are mostly white, dry and fresh. Reds and sparkling wines are made too.

Because volumes are small, Saxon wine is rarely sold outside the region. Near Dresden runs the Saxon Wine Route, and wineries work in Radebeul. The border with Czechia runs close by, and Czech Bohemia lies further up the Elbe. Saxon wines suit river fish, meat dishes and pies, as well as local baked goods.