There are “so many places to discover in The Netherlands” says ambassador Job Seuren
Star Wine List’s resident roving ambassador, Job Seuren, reports from across the world but, for his latest report, has focused on his home country of the Netherlands. We asked him what its wine scene is looking like right now.
Job Seuren was named Gault&Millau Netherland’s Sommelier of the Year 2024. He is an owner of the “no fuss” Michelin-starred Zoldering restaurant in Amsterdam and also writes for De Grote Hamersma wine guide.
He has just added four new Red Stars in Amsterdam, The Hague, Baarn and Nijmegen, so we asked him how the country’s wine scene is looking – and what he’s after in a wine destination.
Explore our updated guides to the best wine places in Amsterdam and The Hague.
How would you describe the food and wine scene in the Netherlands right now?
“Ever growing, lots of new places opening almost every week and the classics remaining great classics.”
Where are the hot spots for wine lovers to visit?
“Amsterdam is a relatively small city, so basically every place is within 20 minutes of biking distance. It is really becoming a mature foodie city. There are lots of places opening in the north of Amsterdam, but that still needs to become more ‘mature’.
“The Jordaan neighbourhood has probably the highest concentration of great places, but the Utrechtsestraat has had a complete makeover over the last few years, going from very little to a huge amount of great shops and restaurants.
“More and more nice restaurants are also opening in living neighbourhoods, so not so much in the city centre.”
You often report from around the world for Star Wine List, how does it feel posting reports from your home country?
“I find I travel way too little in my own country. I hardly visit the same restaurant more than twice a year because I want to discover so many things, but there are still soooo many places to discover in The Netherlands alone.”
What makes the Netherlands stand out, in terms of its wine offerings?
“I think compared internationally, both food and wine are of a high standard and for good prices. At least compared to other northern European countries. Wine-wise, there is a huge diversity because we don’t really produce great wines ourselves: from the classic French, Spanish, Italian and German wines to great South African finds, to Australian and US wines if you look well.”
Are you noticing any trends emerging across wine lists at the moment?
“Though natural wines have become commonplace, I feel there is more balance again with both natural and more traditional wines.”
Do you have any pet peeves when visiting new places?
“I wish I did.”
How can a new venue impress you?
“With a good, well-thought-out selection of great wines, not necessarily famous, but well selected with personality. A good overview ordered by either price or region, or both, and a broad selection below 100 Euros a bottle. But I think a good, knowledgeable staff who understands the guests’ wishes is the thing that impresses most.”
And what are you up to at the moment?
“Never a dull moment. Zoldering is still booming, but we also opened a wine shop, Lof, and are building a new bistro restaurant called Boon & De Koot, which is supposed to open in early April. I’ve also planned a huge amount of wine trips for the coming year, so there are lots of things to do!”
JOB'S NEW RED STARS
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