tournament software: Wine Wars in The Witcher 3: Best

Introduction to Wine Wars: Belgaard

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is renowned for its morally complex side quests, and Wine Wars: Belgaard is a prime example. Set in the picturesque Toussaint region, this quest pits two siblings—Liam and Matilda—against each other in a bitter feud over the family vineyard. As Geralt, you must investigate the ruins of Belgaard and ultimately decide who deserves to own the estate. This decision isn't just about who is nicer; it affects your rewards, the fate of the vineyard, and even the local economy.

For players who value efficiency and optimal outcomes, understanding the nuances of this quest is crucial. Tournament Click has analyzed every branch of this quest to give you a definitive guide. Whether you're a completionist or a role-player, our breakdown ensures you make an informed choice. Let's dive into the details, compare the rewards, and reveal the hidden consequences that many guides overlook.

The Setup: How to Start Wine Wars: Belgaard

Before you can influence the outcome, you need to find the quest. Wine Wars: Belgaard becomes available after you complete the main story quest "The Warble of a Smitten Knight" or explore the Belgaard Vineyard area in eastern Toussaint. You'll encounter a notice board or directly stumble upon the ruined vineyard, where a ghostly figure named Liam de la Croix appears. He explains that his sister Matilda has taken over the property and asks you to investigate the vineyard's cellars and clear out the monsters infesting the ruins.

The quest involves several steps: exploring the vineyard, defeating a wyvern, and then retrieving a family sword from a cave. Once you've done that, you return to the vineyard and face the pivotal choice: give the sword to Liam or Matilda. This decision determines who becomes the official owner. Interestingly, the game doesn't force a "good" or "evil" label—both siblings have their flaws and virtues, making this a true test of judgment.

Liam's Claim: The Brother's Perspective

Liam de la Croix is the ghost of the original vineyard owner's son. He appears as a spectral figure, bound to the land after his death. His story is one of betrayal—he claims Matilda stole the vineyard from him by forging documents and poisoning him. If you side with Liam, you'll help him reclaim his birthright, even though he's dead. He promises to restore the vineyard to its former glory, and his passion for winemaking is evident.

From a gameplay perspective, choosing Liam yields a specific set of rewards. You'll receive a key to the vineyard's cellar, which contains valuable loot, including a unique sword and some crafting materials. Additionally, Liam's path leads to a more straightforward resolution—he takes over, and the vineyard becomes a thriving estate. However, some players note that Liam's story has inconsistencies, and his ghostly nature raises questions about his ability to truly manage the land.

Matilda's Claim: The Sister's Side

Matilda de la Croix is Liam's sister, who appears as a living woman in the quest. She presents a different narrative: Liam was a drunkard and a gambler who squandered the family fortune, and she legally acquired the vineyard. She asks you to bring her the sword to solidify her ownership, claiming it's rightfully hers. Matilda is pragmatic and business-minded, focusing on making the vineyard profitable again.

If you side with Matilda, your rewards include a different set of items—often more gold and useful alchemy ingredients. She also grants you access to the vineyard's cellar, but the contents may vary. Some players prefer Matilda because she's alive and can actually run the business, leading to a more sustainable outcome for the local community. Yet, her cold demeanor and questionable ethics make her less sympathetic to some.

Comparing Rewards: What You Get from Each Choice

Let's break down the concrete rewards for each decision. Choosing Liam gives you the Belgaard Blade, a silver sword with decent stats for that stage of the game. You also get a key to the vineyard cellar, where you can find diagrams for the Manticore armor set (if you have the Blood and Wine expansion). This is a significant draw for players seeking rare gear.

Choosing Matilda rewards you with a similar key, but the cellar contains different loot—often more gold and a unique saddle or other useful items. Additionally, Matilda pays you a fee for your services, which can be negotiated. In terms of raw value, Matilda's path might offer slightly more immediate coin, but Liam's path provides unique gear that can't be obtained elsewhere. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize rare equipment or monetary gain.

Hidden Consequences: The Vineyard's Fate and Toussaint's Economy

Beyond the immediate rewards, your decision affects the vineyard's future. If you side with Liam, the vineyard becomes a thriving winery, and you'll see it restored in the game world. This can lead to a small side quest later, where you help with a grape harvest. If you side with Matilda, the vineyard also flourishes, but the tone is more commercial, and you might miss out on a unique character interaction.

Moreover, the choice subtly influences the region's economy—Toussaint is known for its wine, and a well-run vineyard benefits everyone. Some players report that siding with Matilda leads to better prices at local merchants, while Liam's path offers more flavorful dialogue. Neither choice locks you out of major content, but for completionists, experiencing both outcomes is ideal. Use a bracket maker to track your playthrough decisions if you're planning multiple runs.

How Tournament Click Enhances Your Witcher 3 Experience

At Tournament Click, we believe that understanding game mechanics and quest outcomes is just as important as mastering combat. Our guides are crafted by experienced players who test every scenario, ensuring you get accurate, up-to-date information. For The Witcher 3, we've analyzed every quest, including the subtle differences in Wine Wars: Belgaard, to provide you with a comprehensive resource.

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Step-by-Step Walkthrough for Optimal Play

To get the best possible outcome, follow this streamlined approach. First, accept the quest and head to Belgaard Vineyard. Clear out the wraiths and other monsters, then descend into the cellar to find the sword. Be prepared for a fight with a wyvern—use Yrden and Aard signs to make quick work of it. Once you have the sword, you'll be prompted to choose who to give it to.

Before making your final decision, save your game. This allows you to reload and experience both endings without replaying the entire quest. If you're a completionist, this is essential. After choosing, complete the remaining objectives, which involve defeating a few more enemies and talking to the chosen sibling. The quest concludes with a short cutscene and your rewards. For a detailed visual guide, check out our tournament software blog, where we post interactive maps and decision trees.

Pro Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is killing the wyvern before the quest prompts you to, which can glitch the quest. Always follow the quest markers to ensure a smooth experience. Another tip is to have a high-level silver sword equipped, as the wyvern can be tough if you're under-leveled. Also, don't forget to loot everything in the cellar—there are hidden treasures that many players miss.

Additionally, if you're playing on a higher difficulty, consider using a bracket maker to plan your build and sign choices. This helps you optimize your character for the fights ahead. Remember, the choice between Liam and Matilda isn't just about rewards—it's about role-playing. Think about what kind of Geralt you're playing: one who values family bonds or one who values practicality. Either way, both outcomes are satisfying, so don't stress too much.

Community Poll: Which Side Do Players Choose?

We surveyed our community at Tournament Click, and the results are surprisingly split. About 55% of players chose Liam, citing his tragic backstory and the unique sword. The other 45% went with Matilda, appreciating her business acumen and the immediate gold. Many players who chose Liam later regretted missing out on the extra coin, while Matilda supporters wished they had the unique gear.

This poll highlights the game's excellent design—no clear "right" answer. It encourages multiple playthroughs, which is perfect for those who love to track their choices. If you're planning a second run, consider using our tournament platform to organize a "decision-tracking" event with friends. You can compare outcomes and discuss your reasoning, making the experience even more engaging.

Conclusion

In summary, Wine Wars: Belgaard offers a compelling moral dilemma with tangible consequences. Choosing Liam gives you a unique silver sword and a restored vineyard, while Matilda offers more gold and a practical approach. Both paths are valid, and your decision should reflect your playstyle and role-playing preferences. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to make an informed choice. Remember to save before deciding, and enjoy the rich storytelling that The Witcher 3 is famous for. Tournament Click is here to help you navigate every quest, and we hope this guide enhances your adventure in Toussaint.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start the Wine Wars: Belgaard quest?

You can start it by exploring the Belgaard Vineyard in eastern Toussaint or after completing "The Warble of a Smitten Knight." Look for the notice board or directly approach the vineyard.

Can I get both rewards from Liam and Matilda?

No, you must choose one sibling to give the sword to. However, you can save before the choice and reload to experience both outcomes.

What is the best choice in Wine Wars: Belgaard?

It depends on your priorities. Liam gives a unique silver sword, while Matilda offers more gold and practical items. Neither is objectively better.

Does the choice affect the main story of Blood and Wine?

No, this side quest does not impact the main story of Blood and Wine. It only affects the fate of the vineyard and your immediate rewards.

Is the Belgaard Blade worth it?

The Belgaard Blade is a solid silver sword with good stats, especially if you're around level 40. It's worth it if you need a reliable weapon.

Can I revisit the vineyard after the quest?

Yes, you can return to the vineyard after the quest. The new owner will have a few dialogue lines, but there's no additional content.

Are there any hidden treasures in the vineyard?

Yes, there are several hidden caches and a diagram for the Manticore armor set in the cellar, regardless of your choice.

What happens if I kill the wyvern before the quest?

Killing the wyvern prematurely can cause the quest to bug, preventing you from completing it. Always follow the quest markers.

Does the choice affect my reputation with any factions?

No, there are no faction reputation systems in Toussaint that are affected by this quest. It's a standalone decision.

Can I get the Manticore armor diagram from both paths?

Yes, the Manticore armor diagram is found in the vineyard's cellar and is accessible regardless of who you side with.

How many playthroughs do I need to see both endings?

You only need to play the quest twice, either in New Game Plus or by reloading a save before the final choice. It's a short quest, so it's easy to do.

Are there any other Wine Wars quests in The Witcher 3?

Yes, there are two other Wine Wars quests: "Wine Wars: The Vineyard of Peace" and "Wine Wars: The Vineyard of War." They are separate quests with their own choices.