Outstanding Vinotheks Details

Traditions run old and deep in the Zabergäu region, 40 kilometers north of Stuttgart and named for the Zaber, a tributary of the Neckar. Official documents show that wine has been grown here since at least 1147, primarily under the strong guiding hand of the church, as can be inferred in site names such as the Dürrenzimmerner "Mönchsberg" (Monk's Mountain). It can also be seen in the completely rebuilt vinothek, debuted in 2015. With a powerful barrel vault and imposing portals, it almost resembles a sacred building. 

The Weinkonvent Dürrenzimmern was founded in 1937 with 139 growers. Today it features 341 members cultivating 215 hectares under vine. At 30 percent of all plantings, Lemberger is the most popular variety, and is found primarily on the Mönchsberg, Stockheimer Altenberg and the Dürrenzimmerner Heuchelberg. It is used to create red wines, Weißherbst, and the popular Lemberger Blanc de Noir. Since December 2015, Weinkonvent wines have been presented and poured 

in the spectacular new three-story vinothek boasting materials such as gold, oak and corten steel, known for its rusted look. The so-called refectory on the ground floor covers 225 square meters and is notable for its dark oak table. A staircase leads away in both directions. Those headed down find the "Treasury," a vaulted sandstone cellar with a tasting space for up to 18 persons. Those going up will find a gallery with an additional 210 square meters (enough for 60 persons) directly under the impressive cupola. Both the gallery and the old hall for 96 guests can be rented for private celebrations. 

There are plenty of estate events here as well, from the after-work wine tastings on the first Thursday of each month to the Sekt-and-secco brunch held from 10 am to 1 pm each Sunday. Themed culinary wine evenings and guided wine tours up the Mönchsberg for a view of the landscape around Dürrenzimmern and cellar tours to observe the winemaking process are also available. One popular destination is the small vineyard hut on the Mönchsbergsee, where wine is sold by the glass on Sundays and holidays. 

The portfolio is broken into four categories: the classics in liter bottles, fresh and fruity wines from the "Klosterhof" edition, more intensive wines in the "Cellarius" line and premium wines with the heavenly name "Divinus." The Konvent's top red blend from that latter line is a mix of Lemberger (80 percent), Cabernet Sauvignon (15 percent) and Merlot (5 percent), and took home a gold medal at the Mundis Vini competition. As would be expected, that blend bears an ecclesiastic name as well: "The Abbot."