Outstanding Vinothek in Mittelrhein
If you don't come to Spay specifically, you might just notice something out of the corner of your eye. Ah, spontaneously it emerges again as you head down the nearby main road, enchanting, a remote gem that was placed at the foot of the "In der Zech" vineyard two years ago: the tasting wagon of the Weingart winery.
The term "vinothek" is not really Florian Weingart’s style - for him it is way too far removed from the agricultural roots of his business, which was only converted solely into a winery by his father in the 1960s. “It should be relaxed as well as cosy,” says the 48-year-old, not only referring to the wood-panelled construction wagon with adjoining terrace, but above all, the atmosphere around the large oak table inside. It can seat up to twelve people - and it is precisely the chance encounters that often lead to special conversations.
"My wife and I took our inspiration from the classic 'table d'hôte' in France and later designed everything just the way we like it." Avant-garde frivolities are superfluous in this place - all you have to do is look out at the vines and the scented roses lovingly selected by the family. In this homely environment, anyone interested in wine can taste through the Riesling and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) range. Regardless of whether they are a regular customer or have just come by with a hiking backpack. "It is not unusual that we spontaneously invite visitors for a short tour of our wine cellar," explains Weingart.
In fact, the cellar also differs from what is common elsewhere: The place where up to 45,000 bottles are produced annually is hidden underground on the slope. "It was important to me that the winery blends in harmoniously with the existing topography," says the trained oenologist. He has been responsible for the winery since 1996, relocating the business four years ago and reducing it significantly.
Today the family cultivates around four and a half hectares which suits the special care with which Florian Weingart produces his wines. The father of three has acquired additional land from more than 200 different owners over many years. He maintains the landscape sustainably on another eight hectares. And so lush orchards with apples, plums, cherries and peaches thrive around the vines, beekeepers are busy at work and cattle and sheep graze leisurely.
"You get an impression of what the cultural landscape on the Middle Rhine looked like in different epochs," says the winemaker, who also sells jams and honeys in his wagon. This refuge may not have much in common with the tavern formerly run by his parents. But it still exudes the same warmth.
Opening Time
Monday - Friday from 2:00 – 6:30 pm
Saturday: 11:00 am – 6:30 pm
