In a past trip to Germany (MANY years ago?, I remember enjoying the wines served/grown along the Rhine and Mosel; we even happened upon a vinyard and did an impromptu wine tasting. We probably won't do that this time with three kids in tow.

I'm wondering whether I should educate myself on the wines of the region to be able to order more wisely. Or should I just order something local and wing it? I'm not terribly knowlegeable about wine in general.

In each restaurant or pub, the waitstaff will be happy to "teach" you about local wines (unless the place is very crowded and the atmosphere is hectic). Just ask them you want to try different wines.

And I see absolutely no problem with doing an informal wine tasting with children in tow. Ten minutes are enough to try and compare several wines, and the kids will enjoy the atmosphere in the wine cellar as well.

You'll enjoy the wine whether you educate yourself or not. You should know if you prefer sweet, dry or in between. That will be a good place to start to be sure you don't get something you won't drink.

The area is famous for its white wine and not particularly famous for its red.

You'll find many cellars/vineyards will allow you to taste for free, expecting you will buy a bottle or two. I always found the owners happy to explain their wines and take the time to find one to suit my tastes.

Some cellars and some restaurants have "flights" -- four or five tastes for the price of a glass, often to be enjoyed with a meal or snacks.

As traveller says, the children will be welcome.

Have fun!

I have no doubt that children would be welcome at a wine tasting...more concerned about the boredom factor.

missypie, I was in the area with my wife back in the fall, and one of the things we loved were wine stands that were common in the town squares, or other spots around town. At most, you could get a 0.1 liter glass for about 1 to 2 euros. Most seemed to have about 10 or so wines to drink, and if you find one you like, you can jump up to a 0.2 liter glass or a bottle! It'll be about the most pleasant education you've experienced, I'm sure.