Mainz Wine Tasting

So this past weekend Kirsty came to visit from France. We met up in Mainz on Saturday afternoon along with Magali, Catharina and Christian. Christian had told us about a wine tasting of the best wines from Rheinhessen, so we all decided to check it out that afternoon. The wine tasting was not the only reason Kirsty came to visit....or at least so I was told. :) The tasting was held in the Roman Ship Museum, which ended up being such a great venue for the event. The wines, of which there were about 110, were all spread throughout the museum in different groups according to variety and level of quality/style. Although some wines had pourers working the tables, the majority were all self service. Now I'm not one to pass up a deal, so you best believe I made sure we all got our 20 Euros worth for the tasting. After spending about six hours in the tasting you best believe we were all professionals on the wines from Rheinhessen.

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On our way to the tastingInside the ship museumKirsty definitely caught me trying to take some Paparazzi shots!!

Overall we were very impressed with the wines and were able to try some great Pinots and Rieslings that are typical of the region. We also had the chance to try other varieties like Pinot blanc and Gewuerztraminer, and even some super crazy grapes like Ortega - definitely worth trying once, but maybe only once. After the tasting we had dinner in the Altstadt and coffee at a local bar.

The next day Kirsty and I had a lazy morning at home, watching an assortment of YouTube videos and looking at photos from days gone by. We then went on a little tour of Geisenheim, and I showed Kirsty where I work and where all the magic happens. Too bad most of the building was closed, because I would have liked to take her into the cellar and show her all the cool equipment. She did get to see my wine, but sadly it was only through the window since that door was looked to. We both took the train back into Mainz where she met up with her neighbors that she drove with from France. The weekend was definitely too short, but I'm glad I got to see Kirsty even if it was only for one day. Our next plan is to meet up around Thanksgiving time with MJ. We're not sure of our exact plans, but we're thinking about doing a tour of France and maybe of Germany too, time depending.

Oh and last Friday Magali and I went to the Federweiser Festival in Ruedesheim. Sadly it was a very quite night for the festival, but given enough people I am sure it would a rockin' good time. There were about 6 or 7 wine stands with a few others for food and Fall/Winter goods. In addition to selling Federweiser, the wine stands were also selling Gluehwein. Gluehwein is pretty much the best spiced wine you will ever have, and it goes so so well with good winter nights. Together Magali and I managed to try 5 of the 6 Gluweins being sold. Not bad for one evening. :) I cannot wait for more winter festivals!!