If you’ve never heard of the Württemberg wine region, you’re not alone and honestly, the locals like it that way. This under-the-radar corner of southwest Germany is home to some of the country’s most drinkable reds, cozy wine culture, and charming towns where Swabian hospitality is served with a glass of Trollinger in hand.
This isn’t polished-and-pretentious wine country. Württemberg is chill, welcoming, and proudly off the beaten wine trail. And if you’re into discovering places before everyone else does? Consider this your sign.
📍 Where Is the Württemberg Wine Region?
Located in southwest Germany, the Württemberg wine region stretches from Stuttgart up through Heilbronn and beyond, tucked along the Neckar River in the state of Baden-Württemberg.
This is Germany’s fourth-largest wine-growing region, but most of the wine made here stays here. Locals drink over 90% of it themselves making it one of the most hyper-regional and community-driven wine regions in the country.
🍇 What Makes Württemberg Wine Unique?
Württemberg is all about red wine—specifically fruity, refreshing reds that don’t take themselves too seriously (but will definitely surprise you). Thanks to its mild climate, steep slopes, and historic growing sites, this region produces expressive wines with a down-to-earth charm.
🍷 Signature Württemberg Wines to Know
- Trollinger: Württemberg’s calling card. A light-bodied, chillable red that’s made for easy-drinking afternoons.
- Lemberger: Spicy, bold, and seriously slept on. This deeper red shows off Württemberg’s ability to do complexity and crushability.
- Schwarzriesling: Light, juicy, and a bit earthy. It’s perfect for fans of French reds with a German twist.
- Riesling: While better known in the Mosel or Rheingau, Württemberg Riesling brings bright acidity and citrusy energy to the party.
- Kerner: A local white hybrid grape with stone fruit vibes and a refreshing kick.
🍷 Sip Tip: These wines rarely make it beyond the region. Want to taste what the locals are keeping for themselves? Join the Sippers Club for insider-only pours shipped straight to your door.
🛬 Getting to the Württemberg Wine Region
Württemberg is easily accessible from major German cities and perfect for a weekend wine escape.
- From Stuttgart Airport (STR): You’re already there. Stuttgart is the perfect launch point for wine day trips and cozy evenings in nearby villages.
- From Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Just under 1.5–2 hours by train or car to Stuttgart or Heilbronn.
- By Train: Direct regional trains connect Stuttgart with Esslingen, Heilbronn, Ludwigsburg, and other wine towns along the Neckar.
🍷 Sip Tip: Rent a car if you want the freedom to hop between small towns, Besen taverns, and scenic hillside vineyards. Just save the tastings for after the drive. 😉
🥂 Can’t-Miss Wine Experiences in Württemberg
We know we usually have a whole list of places for you to sip through, but sometimes one winery does it so well, it’s worth spotlighting all on its own. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at Weingärtner Stromberg-Zabergäu eG. This community-centered co-op winery blends Swabian hospitality with seriously impressive wines. Regardless if you’re a red wine rookie or already obsessed with Lemberger, they’ll meet you where you’re at…and pour you something to love. And the best part is that you can choose your own tasting adventure:
- The 4-Wine Tasting: Quick, approachable, and ideal for first-timers. A perfect intro to Württemberg’s signature styles.
- The 6-Wine Tasting: Get a little deeper with a guided exploration of regional favorites like Trollinger, Lemberger, and more.
- The 8-Wine Tasting: Go all in. This one’s for the serious sippers who want to dive into the full range of what this winery has to offer.
🎉 Württemberg Wine Region Festivals
This region knows how to wine and dine—and it does so with charm. Here’s how the locals celebrate:
- Stuttgarter Weindorf (Stuttgart Wine Village): One of Germany’s best-known urban wine festivals. Picture half-timbered booths, 500+ regional wines, and plates of käsespätzle under twinkle lights.
- Heilbronn Wine Village: A must-visit in September. Over 10 days of tastings, events, and regional food stalls—this is Württemberg’s wine heartland in full celebration mode.
- Wein auf der Insel (Wine on the Island): Held at Lauffen Castle, this riverside fest pairs stunning views with local pours in a setting straight out of a fairytale.
- Besen Taverns (aka broom taverns): These pop-up seasonal wine spots are marked by a broomstick hanging outside. You’ll find home-cooked meals, homemade wine, and a true peek into Württemberg’s warm, unpretentious culture.
🍷 Sip Tip: Want to know when these festivals pop up? Sign up for our Wine Tasting Friends newsletter and never miss a pour.
🍽️ What to Eat with Württemberg Wine
Wine and food here go hand in hand—think cozy, hearty, and Swabian to the core.
- Trollinger → Maultaschen (German ravioli), grilled sausage, or lentils with spaetzle
- Lemberger → Braised beef, mushroom goulash, or aged cheeses
- Riesling → Zwiebelrostbraten (roast beef with fried onions), schnitzel, or herby potato salad
- Kerner → Roasted chicken, quiche, asparagus with hollandaise
🗓️ A 3-Day Württemberg Wine Itinerary
Here’s how to make the most of a long weekend in red wine country:
Day 1: Arrival in Stuttgart
Check in and explore the city’s markets or stop into a wine bar. Try your first Trollinger with käsespätzle. Optional: spa time.
Day 2: Esslingen & Besen Taverns
- Morning: Explore the medieval old town of Esslingen am Neckar full of half-timbered charm.
- Afternoon: Visit a Besen tavern in the surrounding vineyards. Order what the table next to you is having. Trust.
- Evening: Watch the sunset over the Neckar with a glass of Lemberger.
Day 3: Heilbronn & Wine Route
Visit Heilbronn, aka the “city of wine.” Hike part of the Württemberg Wine Trail, then grab a riverside lunch and tasting. Bonus points if you grab a bottle to-go for the train home.
🍷 Sip Tip: Bring a wine tote bag. You’ll need it.
🥂 Why the Württemberg Wine Region Is Worth the Trip
Württemberg may not be on every wine tourist’s list, but that’s exactly the point. It’s unfussy, full of flavor, and fiercely proud of its reds. You won’t find trophy wineries here, just family-run estates, riverside wine stands, and bottles that go down a little too easily. Come for the Trollinger, stay for the warmth. This is Germany’s red wine region with a soul…and it’s ready to pour.