Ten German waters you'll find in every region 🇩🇪
Germany is a country of mineral waters. Although more than 500 different natural mineral waters originate from German springs, many of us continue to choose the same familiar brands.
But this is where it gets interesting: not all water is the same. The origin, mineral content and carbonation of a water can all significantly influence its taste. Anyone who consciously tastes different waters side by side will quickly notice how different they can be.
That’s why, for ONE SIP AT A TIME, I’ve compiled a list of ten particularly common German mineral waters that are available nationwide. From German classics to regional mineral waters that have long been a popular choice in Germany.
Whether you live in Germany and are looking for a new water, or are visiting — this post is just right for you!
Note: "In every region" does not mean that all brands are available in every single supermarket. Availability varies by retailer and region. This selection focuses on brands that have a significant presence in the retail and foodservice industries nationwide.
1. Gerolsteiner – the German classic
When it comes to mineral water in Germany, Gerolsteiner is hard to beat. It comes from the Vulkaneifel region and is known for its comparatively high mineral content, (at least in the “Medium” and “Spritzig” varieties. A spring with lower mineral content is used for the “Naturell” version. Find out more). Gerolsteiner describes itself as the market leader in branded mineral water.
2. VILSA – A North German classic with a nationwide reach!
VILSA originates from Bruchhausen-Vilsen in Lower Saxony and has traditionally enjoyed particular popularity in the north of the country. However, the brand has significantly expanded its distribution in recent years and now claims to be the third-largest mineral water brand in Germany.
3. Adelholzener – Water from the Bavarian Alps
Adelholzener is one of Germany’s most traditional mineral water brands. It originates from Bad Adelholzen in Bavaria. It is now also available in stores outside Bavaria, including REWE.
4. Selters – One of the big names in German water history
Selters is much more than just a brand of mineral water. The name has become internationally synonymous with mineral water. The spring in the Taunus Mountains has a history going back centuries. Today, Selters is widely available in retail stores and restaurants nationwide.
5. Staatlich Fachingen – For anyone who wants to experience mineral content
Staatlich Fachingen is a special case on this list. 'Fachingen STILL' is officially recognised as a medicinal water. The spring in the Lahn Valley has been in use since 1742. With 1,846 mg/l of bicarbonate, 98.7 mg/l of calcium and 59.2 mg/l of magnesium, its mineral content is exceptionally high.
6. Landpark - The water with organic certification
Landpark Bio is a natural mineral water brand that focuses on organic production and sustainability. Available at Denn’s, for example, the brand combines an everyday beverage with more conscious resource use.
7. St. Leonhards - The living Water
At St. Leonhards, the focus is on the diversity of the springs. The brand offers a variety of waters from different sources. What is particularly fascinating is that the water rises naturally to the earth’s surface from deep artesian springs, without the use of pumps.
8. Black Forest - The Purity of the Black Forest
Its name reveals its origin: 'Black Forest' water comes from the Black Forest. The spring is located in a protected natural area and the water is drawn from deep groundwater reserves. To me, the Black Forest is a wonderful example of how a region's identity can shape people's perception of water. The Black Forest in its name, the Black Forest in its history, and the Black Forest in the glass.
9. Share - Drink well, do good!
Share is an exciting brand because it combines water with a social mission. The mineral water is available at dm drugstores, among other places, and the idea is that by buying a product, you are also supporting a social project. This makes Share a prime example of how consumption, sustainability, and social responsibility can be combined.
10. Saskia - Germany's most well-known private-label mineral water
Germany's most well-known private-label mineral water
Saskia is one of the mineral waters that you see very often in everyday life in Germany. It is Lidl's own brand. Interestingly, Saskia doesn't come from just one source. Depending on the region, the water is bottled from different sources. These include Wörth am Rhein, Kirkel and Jessen, for example. Find out more about Saskia and its various sources.
What makes these ten waters interesting?
The exciting part isn’t deciding which water is the best.
It's the realisation that each water has its own unique character.
A lightly mineralised, still water, for example, can seem delicate and understated. A highly mineralised water, on the other hand, can have more body and depth. Carbonation changes not only the mouthfeel, but also the perception of acidity, freshness and aromas.
This is exactly why it’s worth looking at water from a different perspective and asking yourself the following questions:
Where does the water come from?
How mineralised is it?
How does it taste, and what is its texture?
What food does it pair well with?
A culinary experience doesn’t always begin with the first bite. Sometimes it’s the first sip of water.
With that said: Drink water, #stayhydratedÂ
Best regards
Timo Bausch
Certified Water Sommelier
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About SOMMCADEMY
Water is more than just a basic necessity. It represents taste, health, and experience. A new awareness is emerging: Drinking mindfully, recognizing differences, and truly understanding quality. As a certified Water Sommelier, I founded SOMMCADEMY to share the diversity and unique characteristics of mineral water with the world. With SOMMCADEMY, you can experience water in a whole new way, as a sensory journey that will make your event truly special / Timo Bausch Founder of SOMMCADEMY
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