Baden Baden Germany

A PLACE WHERE TOP WINES THRIVE

Baden-Baden’s own vineyard: The Baden-Baden Rebland
The villages of Neuweier, Steinbach and Varnhalt make up the Baden-Baden Rebland, with its wonderful countryside, a mild climate, fine food and wine and traditional hospitality – the perfect place for taking a break from the rigors of everyday life. It is a harmonious blend of nature, relaxation and enjoyment in the company of friendly people. I was privileged to sample this wonderful City and hospitality just recently when I was invited by Dr. Sigrun Lang , President of Skal Baden-Baden/Karlshrue after we had twinned our two Clubs, mine being, Skal Winelands Cape Town at ITB in Berlin on the 7th March. 2008.

The fertile soil, mild climate, long sunny days and favourable humidity on the western slopes of the Black Forest I was told, provide ideal conditions for grapes – especially the Riesling to develop into wines of great complexity that is rarely matched. Many other varietals also thrive in this setting, including burgundy, Muller- Thurgau, Baccus, Sauvignon, Merlot, Gewurztraminer, Kemer and Scheurebe.

It is therefore no surprise that I learnt that the local vintners have received countless decorations and awards. ( A curious titbit: growers in Baden-Baden are officially permitted to bottle their wine in the flagon-shaped “Bocksbeutel”) a privilege they share only with their colleagues in the Franconian wine regions.

On the other side of the hill, within a few kilometres, is the heart of Baden-Baden. The spa, culture and festival town which boasts one of Europe’s largest concert Halls. Here culture is spelt with a capital “C”. It is also home to the world famous Baden-Baden Casino with its ornate interior and the historic kurhaus.

At the spa in Baden-Baden spend a day of relaxation, in the hot, curative thermal waters of the modern Caracalla Therme or in the historic Friedrichsbad with its “Roman-Irish bath”

Baden-Baden a place to simply make yourself at home! As I did and leave the stress of everyday life behind – Quality, friendliness and good service is to be found in all the hotels, guesthouses and restaurants. I was hosted at the Dorint Hotel in Baden- Baden where the Emperor and Empress once held court, today the guest is king and I certainly felt like one.