Germany has a (wine) queen!

Every year, a Wine Queen and two Princesses are elected in Germany. They represent the thirteen wine-growing regions around the world. An exciting time for the trio! We wanted to learn more and asked Paula Löber, German Wine Queen 2026/2027, a few questions.

What do you think defines the unique character of Germany’s wine regions, and why is it worth visiting them?

Germany has so many beautiful places worth discovering. But for me, the most beautiful places are where the vines grow. And what makes our wine regions so special? Quite simply, their diversity! Each of Germany’s 13 wine-growing regions has its own distinctive character, even when they are only a short distance apart.

In the Nahe region, for example, different soils and landscapes come together, while Rheinhessen is characterised by rolling hills and wide-open fields. Baden captivates visitors with its sun-drenched landscapes, stretching from Lake Constance through the Kaiserstuhl to the Baden Bergstrasse. And along the Hessische Bergstrasse, vineyards on the edge of the Odenwald offer beautiful views.

That is exactly what makes wine so special: it is about the wine itself, but also about different landscapes, cultures and people. That is why I believe wine should be enjoyed not just as a product, but also as part of our cultural heritage and as an experience.

Moselle wine region – chapel in the vineyards ©Deutsches Weininstitut GmbH (DWI)

What experiences should travellers definitely try when visiting a German wine region?

The great thing is that everyone can discover a wine region in their own way. I think combining wine with the surrounding landscape is ideal, whether by bike, on foot through the vineyards or by boat. Those who prefer a more relaxed experience can visit a winery for a wine tasting. You often hear fascinating stories and discover how differently a wine, such as Silvaner, can taste depending on where it comes from and how it is made. I also recommend taking a guided winery tour to get a look behind the scenes.

Finish the day with regional specialities, and you will also discover the local cuisine and traditions.

When is the best time to visit? Any time of year. Personally, I prefer spring and autumn. In spring, the first hikes through the vineyards and young wine weeks invite visitors to explore the regions. From August to October, it is grape harvest season. Some wineries even offer visitors the opportunity to help with the harvest. Wine festivals also take place in many locations, with live music and regional delicacies.

As I love beautiful views, I recommend visiting the “Schönste Weinsichten” (Most Beautiful Wine Views). These viewpoints are selected by the German Wine Institute in cooperation with the regional wine marketing organisations.

My tip: visit several wine regions. Each has its own unique character.

Baden wine growing region, the Kaiserstuhl hills ©Deutsches Weininstitut GmbH

Germany is known for many grape varieties. Which grape surprises international visitors the most?

When people around the world think of German wine, one grape variety usually comes to mind: Riesling. It is our flagship grape, and our relatively cool climate gives it a particular elegance and freshness.

What makes it especially fascinating is how clearly it reflects its terroir. A Riesling grown on the steep slate slopes of the Moselle tastes very different from one grown on limestone in the gentler hills of the Palatinate. It also offers an impressive range of aromas, from familiar fruits such as apples and peaches to more exotic notes.

Light dishes such as salads, fish and Asian cuisine are increasingly popular. With its refreshing acidity, Riesling is the perfect accompaniment.

Stuttgart: Steepslope winegrowing area in the Neckar valley ©DZT (Leungmo)

How do you experience the passion of the people who live and work in Germany’s wine regions?

I experience it through conversations with people whose lives are connected to wine, whether they work in wine production, retail, tourism or local associations, or are simply visiting. They radiate a real zest for life.

Smaller organisations, such as local winegrowers’ associations, organise events that bring to life the importance of wine for regional identity. This also reflects a strong connection to their home regions, which is evident in the generational changes taking place. Associations are attracting younger members, while graduates are taking over family wineries. They bring new scientific knowledge into their businesses and help strengthen the distinctive profiles of Germany’s 13 wine-growing regions.