De Apostelhoeve – 2023 Viognier

De Apostelhoeve – 2023 Viognier.

An expressive and refined white wine that captures the unique terroir of Limburg with clarity, elegance, and ripe aromatics. More than just a new release, this Viognier marks a milestone in Dutch wine history: one of the latest additions to De Apostelhoeve’s portfolio, and among the very first Viogniers ever produced in the Netherlands.

As a pioneer of quality winemaking in the Netherlands, De Apostelhoeve has been setting the standard since 1970. With the introduction of Viognier—a grape more commonly associated with the Rhône Valley—the Hulst family once again demonstrates vision and courage. The rolling hills of Limburg, with their loess and marl soils, lend this Viognier a distinctive character: fresh and mineral-driven, yet rich and layered on the palate.

This is a wine that sets a new benchmark for Dutch Viognier: energetic, gastronomic, and surprisingly international in allure.

About the Winery

De Apostelhoeve, located on the Louwberg just outside Maastricht, is the oldest and most iconic wine estate in the Netherlands. Where many once doubted whether quality viticulture was possible in this northern climate, De Apostelhoeve not only proved it but paved the way for a thriving wine culture in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Today, the third generation of the Hulst family leads the estate. With more than 20 hectares under vine, the domaine cultivates Riesling, Auxerrois, Pinot Gris, Müller-Thurgau, and now Viognier. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, De Apostelhoeve has created a recognizable style: crisp, mineral, and refined, always marked by individuality.

About the Wine

The 2023 Viognier comes from carefully selected plots on the south-facing slopes of the Louwberg, where the grapes benefit from optimal sun exposure and excellent drainage.

On the nose, the wine opens with opulent aromas of ripe apricot, peach, and subtle blossom. Beneath lies a delicate minerality, immediately placing it in Limburg’s terroir. The palate is round and generous, offering notes of exotic fruit, light honey, and fine spice, all balanced by a lively freshness.

Its texture is polished, with a gentle creaminess typical of Viognier but never heavy. The finish is long, elegant, and lightly saline—inviting another glass.

This Viognier underlines not only the potential of Limburg but also the bold spirit of De Apostelhoeve—being among the first to successfully introduce Viognier to Dutch soils. A versatile gastronomic partner, it pairs beautifully with scallops, lobster, or lightly spiced Asian cuisine.

Conclusion

Apostelhoeve’s 2023 Viognier is a striking example of Limburg’s potential. As one of the first Viogniers produced in the Netherlands, it combines aromatic intensity with finesse and freshness, showing just how well this Rhône grape can thrive on Dutch soil.

We award this wine 90 points DWA Score—a must-try for lovers of expressive and elegant white wines, and a landmark step for Dutch viticulture.

This review is written by our own Niels Aarts. De Apostelhoeve and this Apostelhoeve Viognier are distributed and sold in the Netherlands by Bovino, and can be bought online through their webshop.

Taste Date:     September 2025

Website:         De Apostelhoeve