LagenKOSTbar Forst

Forst — Home of World-Class Rieslings

Forst an der Weinstraße is small—and yet world-famous. The top vineyards of the village—Ungeheuer, Kirchenstück, Jesuitengarten, Pechstein, and Freundstück—produce Rieslings that have been among the most expensive wines in Germany since the 19th century. Even Bavarian King Ludwig I had Forst wine delivered to his court. Today, Forst vineyards are among the best in German viticulture, with several wineries being members of the VDP—the Association of German Prädikat Wine Estates.

The Forst Spring Tasting

LagenKOSTbar has been the showcase for Forst vintners since 1997. Over two days—traditionally the first weekend in May—members of the Forst Vintners Association present their current vintages: young, fresh Rieslings from the grand cru vineyards, Weissburgunder, Grauburgunder, occasional Spätburgunder, and Sekt (sparkling wine). The tasting takes place in Gutshof Murjahn—a historic estate with an inner courtyard, press house, and spacious rooms, providing a worthy setting for the over 80 wines.

Format and Atmosphere

Unlike a classic folk wine festival (Volksweinfest), LagenKOSTbar is a curated tasting with character: visitors receive a wine glass and can move freely between the stands, have the vineyard differences explained by the vintners and oenologists, and directly compare the Rieslings of a vintage. Forst Rieslings exhibit characteristic minerality—the basalt soil of Pechstein, the marl limestone of Ungeheuer, and the sandstone weathering of Kirchenstück each shape unmistakable styles.

Sunday Sparkling Wine Matinee

On Sunday morning, between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, the renowned Sekt-Matinee takes place—a curated tasting of Palatinate Sekt and sparkling wines, often accompanied by music and culinary delights. It is the elegant highlight of the weekend and, for many regular guests, the most important part of the program.