Estonia is located in Northern Europe on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, bordered by Latvia and Russia. Due to its cool northern climate and short growing season, traditional grape viticulture is very limited, and wine production has developed differently from that of classic European wine regions.
Estonian wine production relies mainly on cold-hardy and hybrid grape varieties, as well as on fruit wines made from apples, berries, and other locally grown fruit. Small vineyards and experimental plantings are found primarily in southern Estonia and on the islands, where conditions are slightly milder.
Most wines produced are for domestic consumption and include dry, semi-dry, and sweet styles. Grape wines remain small in volume, while fruit wines form an important part of Estonia's broader wine culture. Production is typically artisanal, with an emphasis on adaptation to local climatic conditions rather than large-scale output.