Weingut Ernst Bretz

Weingut Bretz - Outstanding Vinothek in Rheinhessen

There are only a few visitors who are not surprised after they have crossed the narrow entrance gate into the Bretz winery. Who would expect to find a large inner courtyard with palm trees and blooming oleander in Bechtolsheim in the Rheinhessen region? Warmed by the sun, you take in the Tuscan-like surrounds. You want to sit down immediately, but you shouldn't miss a look inside the old farmhouse. The winemaking family, which is celebrating its 300th anniversary this year, had the idea of ​​converting their tasting room, which was located in a former cowshed, into a vinothek seven years ago.

The previous use of the space is very misleading - in fact, it is a decorative cross vault, which has been expanded once again to include a modern extension. "My family was one of the first to realise such a concept in this area," says Victoria Bretz. The 27-year-old is now part of the tenth generation dedicated to viticulture. The qualified oenologist, who, together with her parents and her uncle, cultivates 40 hectares of vines in four communities around the Petersberg, represents well what the vinothek stands for: sophisticated wine enjoyment in a perfect, yet relaxed atmosphere.

In the front part of the building with its high glass windows, natural stone, oak and the colour green dominate. Many guests love the cosy booths with the striped wallpaper and, in winter, the fireplace. Victoria Bretz herself likes the modern black lamps with stucco details inside. The old barrique barrels on the back wall bear witness to the long history of the winegrowing family. Just like selected black-and-white photographs on the walls of the original part of the building. In this former "cow chapel" - the forecourt of a nunnery used to be located here - the bench upholstered in red tones attracts attention. And invites conversation with other wine enthusiasts.

"All the rooms are used exclusively for wine tastings. There are no events here," says Victoria Bretz. She is sure that the guests appreciate not only the good service but also the "relaxed vibe" while they enjoy what thrives particularly well on the chalky limestone soils of the region: Sauvignon Blanc and various Pinot varieties. "There's a jolt going through the scene right now. The topic of wine is hip, and offers like a vinothek are simply part of it."

And because the family has had fun bringing a little "momentum into the area", they are currently building a wine bar with a view of the Petersberg. There, it will not only be possible to order wine, but also small regional specialities. Will the man-sized, wooden corkscrew from the entrance area of the vinothek be relocated? Who knows? In any case, there is no standing still with the Bretz family.

Opening Time

Monday - Friday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm; 1:00 – 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm