Wine from your own city: discover the Hague City Vineyard
- Hidden gems
- December 31, 2024
- 5 min read
The Hague, the city known for its 11-kilometre coastline and city centre. But behind every corner there is a story. And if you look closely, you will discover hidden beauty everywhere in the city. Let yourself be carried away and surprised by the best kept treasures. Dive into the hidden pearls that make our city so special.
Attention residents of The Hague! Have you heard about that vineyard in the middle of the city? In the dynamics of The Hague, between the railway and the busy streets, lies the Haagse Stadswijngaard. It is not only a green oasis where wine is produced, but also a place of connection and pleasure.
An urban vineyard for and by the people
The Hague City Vineyard is more than just a place where grapes grow. Frank explains how the vineyard functions as a place where participants, city residents and visitors can come together. 'As a participant you basically have a piece of the vineyard to yourself, from January until the wine is made', he explains. During the year, participants are kept informed of the work that needs to be done via an app group. 'In the weekend you come together to work on the vineyard, and then we end with a drink. It's always fun.'
In the summer, the vineyard organizes various events, such as mini-concerts in collaboration with the Laaktheater. Frank enthusiastically remembers a performance by a singer between the vines: 'She sang opera and that was really insanely beautiful.' Another highlight is the annual dinner in the vineyard, where sixty people enjoy an atmospheric dinner at a long table amidst the greenery. The vineyard also always knows how to attract attention with striking initiatives, such as the use of "Royal manure" from the horses of the royal stables.
Wine, grappa and Turkish dolmades
Frank explains that at the end of the season they produce both red and white wine, and that they even make grappa, distilled from the grape residue. 'Our grappa is very soft, not chemical like you sometimes find in Italy', he says laughing. 'The first sip may take some getting used to, but after that it's natural!'
Although the vineyard is located in the middle of the city, between the railway and busy roads, the location has a special charm. The sea air or city air has no direct influence on the grapes, but the proximity of the neighbourhood creates liveliness. People from the surrounding gardens regularly come to have a look. Frank tells enthusiastically about a Turkish woman who asked for vine leaves to make dolmades. 'We told her to bring a pan to one of our parties. She didn't just come with the food, but stayed at the party. Those are the things that make me proud.'
Having fun with wine
In addition to making wine, The Hague City Vineyard has acquired a deeper meaning. The vineyard is not just about making wine. It is about “having fun with wine”, as Frank describes it, a motto that is even included in the vineyard’s statutes. He looks proudly at the place they have built together: ‘It is a meeting place, in the middle of The Hague, where people have fun and feel connected.’ For Frank, The Hague City Vineyard is a way to create something special with his city and the community.
So, are you curious about this vineyard, in the middle of The Hague? Visit the Haagse Stadswijngaard, discover the delicate wines, have a chat with the winemakers and feel the connection with this unique place in the heart of The Hague. Here you will not only taste wine, but also the soul and pride of the city.