Bacharach

Bacharach, a derivative of the Latin Bacchi ara (altar of Bacchus), has long been associated with wine. Like Rüdesheim, Bingen, and Kaub, it was a shipping station where barrels would interrupt their Rhine journey for land transport. Riesling wine from the town's most famous vineyard, the Bacharacher Hahn, is served on the KD Rhine steamers, and Riesling is used in local cooking for marinades and sauces; you can even find Riesling ice cream. In late June you can sample wines at the Weinblütenfest (Vine Blossom Festival) in the side-valley suburb of Steeg and, in late August, at Kulinarische Sommernacht in Bacharach proper (www.kulinarische-sommernacht.de).