Overview
Harju County surrounds Tallinn and extends north to Lahemaa National Park. It is home to Valgejõe Veinivilla, Estonia's northernmost winery, and several other small farms that produce fruit and berry wines, ciders, and a small amount of grape wine from cold-hardy hybrids.
The region's short, cool growing season favors Solaris, Rondo, and other PIWI varieties, as well as apple, blackcurrant, rhubarb, and sea buckthorn wines. The style is light, aromatic, and high in acidity, often served with Nordic and Estonian cuisine.
Key Varietals
- SolarisA disease-resistant white grape hybrid that produces crisp, citrusy wines.
- RondoAn early-ripening red hybrid giving light, fresh reds and rosés.
- AppleThe foundation of Estonian cider and many fruit wines from local orchards.
- BlackcurrantA tart, aromatic berry used for richly colored Estonian fruit wines.
Region snapshot
Climate
Cool maritime with short summers
Rainfall
600-800mm annually
Soil Types
Glacial till, sandy loam, and forest soils