Side quests in games can offer delightful detours or puzzling challenges, and "In Vino Veritas" in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* certainly falls into the latter category with its intricate steps and nested side quest. Let's break down how to navigate this quest to uncover the monks' wine secret.

Speak with Casper and Havel

Your journey begins with Casper Rudolf, who you'll find by his drink cart on the east side of Kuttenberg City. Simply walk straight from the east gate, and you'll bump into him. Casper is curious about the monks' superior wine and needs your help to uncover its secret. Engage thoroughly in dialogue with him to gather information about Havel and a book he left with Adleta. This conversation will shape your approach to impressing Havel.

For those interested in retrieving the book from Adleta, head to the southeast corner of Kuttenberg's inner wall during the morning or afternoon. You'll find an open garden where Adleta often spends her time. Before you go, pick five Marigolds. Try to meet Adleta before her brother Hugo arrives, or speak to Hugo for permission to talk to her. Be kind during your conversation, explaining that you need the book for Casper. You can attempt a skill check to convince her to hand it over, or present the Marigolds as a gift to secure the book. Once you have it, read it from your inventory.

Alternatively, skip the book and head straight to Havel at his inn in Kuttenberg City. Make sure your drinking skills are up to par and wear an outfit that boosts your Charisma to at least 18. Engage Havel with these dialogue choices:

• Germany. Let’s do it.
• That’s a very fine gift.
• Steinberger.
• It’s missing ginger.

These choices will impress Havel, leading him to reveal the monastery's secret ingredient. Share this information with Casper.

Find the Monastery’s Secret Ingredient

Next, head to the vineyard north of Kuttenberg and speak with the recruiter to initiate the "Under the Straw Hat" side quest. While you don't need to complete this quest, starting it grants you access to the vineyard without being labeled a trespasser. Inside, locate Jerome, who should be sitting on a bench near the main building.

Sneak into the main building, turn left, and enter the storeroom. Use your lockpicking skills to open the chests and find the Sulphur Wicks, which are crucial for Casper. For additional Groschen, visit the garden at the back of the main building and collect five seedlings before you leave.

If you decide to complete "Under the Straw Hat," you'll need to perform tasks such as removing plants around the vines and moving sacks. Once you've done enough work, report back to Jerome to finish the side quest and earn some Groschen. Otherwise, return to Casper with the Sulphur Wicks and any seedlings you've collected.

Completing "In Vino Veritas" frees you up to explore other quests in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* or indulge in collecting badges and dice for a change of pace.