The Netherlands may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but that perception is changing. Across the country, vineyards — both small and large — are thriving, producing high-quality wines from Groningen to Zeeland and from South Holland to Gelderland.
Over the past two decades, the Netherlands has gained recognition as an unexpected wine destination, with a growing focus on sustainability and innovation, according to Holland.com.
Though wine production in the Netherlands has historic roots, the modern industry took off about 50 years ago, particularly in the Maastricht region. Pioneers like Frits Bosch of Slavante and Hugo Hulst of De Apostelhoeve played a key role in reviving the craft. Inspired by Jean Bellefroid, a Belgian winemaker experimenting across the border in Borgloon, they helped reintroduce viniculture to Dutch soil. Their efforts have since paved the way for a thriving wine culture, as noted by Holland.com.
Shifting climate, expanding possibilities
Historically known for its damp, cool weather, the Netherlands has seen climate changes that are unexpectedly benefiting its wine industry. Higher temperatures and more extended periods of sunshine have improved conditions for grape cultivation, allowing varieties typically associated with France and Germany — such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Auxerrois — to thrive in areas like Limburg, Brabant, and Zeeland, according to reports from Holland.com.
Southern provinces leading the way
The country’s southern regions, which receive the most sunshine, are proving to be particularly promising for winemaking. De Apostelhoeve, the Netherlands’ oldest and most renowned winery, recently introduced Viognier to its production — a grape variety long associated with the warmer climate of southern France. Years ago, the Hulst family, owners of De Apostelhoeve, began modifying their vineyards to accommodate grape varieties suited to warmer temperatures. Their calculated risk is paying off, as stated by Holland.com.
Soil composition also plays a crucial role in defining Dutch wines. Vineyards in Limburg benefit from loess and marl, which contribute to their wines’ depth, while Zeeland’s wines reflect the mineral-rich nature of its shell-layered soils. Meanwhile, vineyards in Groningen and Gelderland cultivate grapes in terp and sandy soils, adding further diversity to the country’s wine profiles, according to the same source.
Sustainable winemaking
Since the early 2000s, Dutch vineyards have been expanding, partly due to the introduction of grape varieties specifically developed for northern European climates. Varietals like Regent, Cabernet Cortis, Johanniter, Solaris, and Souvignier Gris require fewer pesticides, making them a more sustainable choice. This has enabled winemakers in northern provinces to produce high-quality wines while reducing environmental impact, Holland.com reports.
Beyond reducing pesticides, some Dutch winemakers are striving to eliminate them altogether. In Groningen’s Groot Maarslag, for example, vintner Elma Middel cultivates Johanniter and Solaris grapes using natural methods, with the salty coastal breeze helping to keep the vines dry. Meanwhile, in South Limburg, Stan Beurskens of Wijndomein Sint Martinus uses drone technology to monitor vineyard conditions, optimizing harvest times and improving efficiency, according to insights from Holland.com.
A rising reputation
As Dutch winemakers refine their techniques, sparkling wine has emerged as one of the country’s strengths. Due to their naturally high acidity, Dutch wines are well-suited for sparkling varieties, making the Netherlands a new source for quality bubbly — no longer requiring a trip to Champagne, according to Holland.com.
The country is also embracing orange and amber wines, made using traditional skin fermentation methods that create rich, complex flavors. Wineries such as Betuws Wijndomein, Wijngaard Dassemus, Wijngoed Wolf, and Wijngaard VieVinVjenne are experimenting with these styles, particularly using Souvignier Gris, Solaris, and Muscaris grapes, as documented by Holland.com.
Alcohol-free wines
Sulfites have long been used as preservatives in winemaking, but concerns over their health impact have led some Dutch wineries to explore alternatives. Wineries like Sint Martinus in Vijlen and The Colonjes in Groesbeek have invested in research to develop low-sulfite or sulfite-free wines, with promising results, Holland.com states.
In addition, alcohol-free wine options are growing in popularity. Betuws Wijndomein is leading the way with a line of alcohol-free sparkling wines and teas, appealing to consumers who want the taste and experience of wine without the alcohol, as noted by Holland.com.
Discovering Dutch wine country
For those interested in exploring the Netherlands’ wine scene, various wine routes are available. Scenic trails in Gelderland and South Limburg allow visitors to cycle or walk through vineyards, stopping for tastings along the way. Other regions, including Drenthe and Overijssel, also offer routes that highlight the country’s expanding wine industry, Holland.com reports.
Stay overnight in the vineyards
Many Dutch wineries now offer accommodations, allowing guests to extend their experience beyond a simple tasting. Staying overnight in a vineyard offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the winemaking process. Since Dutch wine production remains relatively small, these wines are rarely found in supermarkets, making a direct visit the best way to sample them, as highlighted by Holland.com.
Urban winemaking
For those unable to travel to the countryside, urban vineyards in The Hague, Amsterdam, Almere, and Utrecht provide a unique alternative. These community-driven projects bring together local residents and professional winemakers, often supported through crowdfunding initiatives, according to information from Holland.com.
Maastricht is home to The Urban Winery, which produces wines for smaller Limburg winemakers who lack their own production facilities. Visitors can stop by for tastings and gain insight into how winemaking is thriving in an urban setting, Holland.com notes.
Pairing Dutch wines with local cuisine
Dutch wines are increasingly making their way onto restaurant menus, often paired with regional specialties. Wine shop Bob in Amsterdam hosts tastings dedicated to Dutch wines, while wine bars in cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Amersfoort offer selections by the glass.
For a quintessentially Dutch pairing, try a glass of local wine alongside a cheese board featuring regional varieties. Restaurants like Hemel en Aarde in Utrecht offer curated Dutch wine lists, making it easy to explore the country’s growing wine industry, according to reports from Holland.com.
