Outstanding Vinotheks Details

The Bürgerspital Weingut in Würzburg is probably one of the most exciting wine destinations in Germany. Countless stories are hidden in the old walls of the winery, because wine has played such a prominent role here for more than 700 years. The Steinwein from 1540, the oldest white wine in the world, is stored in the cellar. The winery itself is part of the Bürgerspital zum Hl. Geist Foundation. Every bottle of wine contributes to this charitable institution’s social commitment: to receive and support people in need of care. In the past, the wine was produced for the use of the inhabitants of the Spital: In 1589, every resident was entitled to one measure (1.22 liters) of wine. This makes the Bürgerspital one of the oldest wine-growing foundations in the world.

Today, Riesling, Silvaner and Burgunder (Pinot) varieties grow on 120 hectares of vineyards. The best wines of the estate are still bottled in the classic Bocksbeutel, a bottle shape that is traditional in Franken, but from which more and more modern wineries are turning away. The renowned vineyards Würzburger Stein and the Monopol site Stein-Harfe produce wines that are popular both nationally and internationally.

Visitors can try these in the Weinhaus am Glockenspiel in the middle of the old city center. "We were the first address on the square for the Bürgerspital winery," says Giovanni Bellanti, manager of the wine bar, shop and tavern. Their hospitable offer is vast: The doors are open seven days a week, Tuesday to Saturday until 10 p.m. Here the day starts with breakfast and ends with a glass of wine in the late evening. "We are a destination for wine connoisseurs all day long," says Bellanti.

Traditional wine sales are combined here with a gastronomic vinothek. Curated flights offer insights into the Großen Gewächse (Grand Cru), red or sparkling wines of the estate. A journey of six wines leads one deep into the wine world of Franconia. There is a wide range of delicious accompaniments on offer to serve with the wine, from cheese platters to home-made bratwurst sausages and other local specialties. In the summer months, the Wine Garden also opens, just a few steps away from the Weinhaus with a direct view onto the bustling Semmelstraße.

The Bürgerspital also offers another traditional experience: The Hockerle, Würzburg’s first tavern set up in 1873, in which you can still drink the house wines by the glass whilst sitting on wooden green benches and eating food you have brought with you. The interior layout of the rooms enhances your commitment to this unique tradition.

Regional materials such as walnut and shell limestone were used to create a 15-meter-long counter and a 'Stammtisch' - a large round table, also used by regulars, that encourages you to chat with other guests. A perfect day in the Weinhaus? "We have guests who try different wines in the vinothek, buy some to take home, and then sit down at the table with a chosen bottle of wine, order something to eat and eventually go home late and happy," says Bellanti.