Wine festivals are a fun way to sample new innovative blends from local vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and meet like-minded individuals with shared interests. These annual wine events in Europe, coupled with a whole host of gastronomical treats, folk dancing, DJs, and spectacular scenery, ensure that a fabulous time is had by all.
Join other Oenophiles to sample the finest - and some lesser-known wines in Europe.
Mainz Wine Festival, Germany
The charming city of Mainz, just 40 minutes drive from Frankfurt is known by many as the wine capital of Germany. Each year the city hosts the Mainz Wine Festival in Stadtpark, on the shores of the Rhine River – an event which dates back to 1902.
The park becomes a haven for food and wine connoisseurs from all around the world, with over a hundred stalls serving varieties of Bratwurst sausage, local delicacies, and of course, the finest Mosel wines from the region.
Wander around the park, stopping at each stall, chatting with vendors and wine producers and sampling the Riesling, Pinot Noir, and sweet wines on offer. Pair your trip with a visit to Altstadt or the Old Town of Mainz with its historic buildings and beautiful cathedral.
This trip can also be combined with wine tasting at Frankfurt’s Rheingau Wine Festival which runs from 30 August to 8 September 2023.
Dates: 24-27 August and 31 August to 3 September 2023
Where: Mainz Stadtpark, Mainz, Germany
Alsace Wine Fair, France
If you like your Riesling chilled, with a side of fairy-tale half-timber houses and meandering canals, Alsace Wine Fair could be the place for you!
Held from late July to early August in the picture-postcard town of Colmar, this festival is an intoxicating blend of all things Alsace. Covered stalls showcase wines from grapes grown in Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin vineyards – think Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer, or Muscat wines. Blend this with the typical Alsatian fare, traditional folk dancing, and live music from international bands and DJ’s and you can’t go wrong!
Wine enthusiasts can extend their stay with a trip along the scenic 170-kilometre-long Alsatian Wine Route and stay in one of the luxury hotels by the vineyards.
Dates: 28 July – 6 August 2023
Where: Colmar, France
Budapest Wine Festival, Hungary
Not many people know that over a century ago, Hungary was a prevalent European wine producer. Yes, that’s right, Hungarian wine is one of the world’s best-kept secrets…until now.
There are around 22 wine-growing regions in the country and each year these are celebrated at the annual Budapest Wine Festival. Over 30,000 people attended last year, and visitors can sample some of the finest Hungarian wines, and some of the more unusual too. Egri Bikavér red is rich in tannins and infused with spices - nicknamed ‘Bull’s Blood’ for its fiery, spicy taste!
In addition, to this being one of Budapest’s largest festivals, it’s also held in one of the city’s most magical spots – Buda Castle. Tickets come with a tasting glass and a free tasting at the VinAgora stand, although all additional culinary delights and drinks are covered by yourself.
It’s a fantastic way to learn about Hungarian wine and its producers, plus with concerts, spectacular architecture, and friendly people, this is one festival oenophiles won’t want to miss.
When: 7-10 September 2023
Where: Buda Castle, Budapest
Fiesta del Albariño, Cambados, Spain
Cambados in Galicia, northern Spain is known for its delicious fresh seafood, beautiful historic monuments, and its famous white wine.
Every year, the latter is celebrated - a festival dedicated to the grape, to the Albariño white wine produced here. At this wine festival dating back to 1953, they rejoice in the flavours and culture of the Basque country. This celebration is accompanied by bagpipes, pintxos (Basque tapas), and wine-tasting experiences galore.
The seaside location is perfect to incorporate into a vacation break and while adults are off wine tasting, activities are available for children. Try the local wines as you wander around the stalls chatting to vendors or purchase a ticket for the D.O. Wine Tunnel Program. The event, for amateurs and professional wine enthusiasts, is guided by a sommelier, and you have the opportunity to sample over 150 brands from different wineries. If you choose this option it may be wise to book a hotel for a couple of nights!
Dates: 2-6 August 2023
Where: Cambados, Galicia, Spain
