Maasvallei Limburg

Maasvallei Limburg covers a narrow stretch of the Meuse valley from Lanaken in Belgium to Roermond in the Netherlands. The river largely marks the border, but the protected wine designation includes both countries. A gravel layer five to fifteen metres thick lies beneath loam in the vineyards, which have a sheltered, moderate climate. Most wines are made from a single grape. Auxerrois whites can be dry and fruity, with gentle acidity. Chardonnay ranges from sharply defined to creamy, while Riesling can be more aromatic. Reds made from Dornfelder can have amarena cherry, blackberry and elderberry flavours with light, ripe tannins, the drying grip in the mouth.