Eberbach Abbey — Attraction in Eltville am Rhein

I have lived in the region for four years and so far this splendid abbey has escaped my attention.

I visited as part of team building activities where we had arranged an evening program including dinner. I did not visit the abbey itself, but rather explored the well maintained gardens and surroundings.

After the first round of team activity we walked to the abbey's vineyard, which is located less than 5 minute walk away, through deep forest and steep paths, therefore proper shoes are necessary. The interesting thing about the vineyard is that its surrounded by the wall and from the top there is a really beautiful view of the Rhine Valley and surrounding towns and vineyards. We were lucky with the weather and had almost absolutely ideal photographic conditions.

Part of our visit was wine tasting, which took place in the abbey's hospital that was converted into a wine cellar. The room was very dark, only lit by candles, so it took me a couple minutes to adjust my eyes. There was no place to sit, but during wine tasting it does not really matter as I engaged with colleagues. While we tasted 3 different kinds of Riesling, our tour guide explained the history of the abbey and its wine production tradition. She was a great talker, entertaining and intriguing story teller. Generally I have trouble keeping my attention on a tour such as this, but it was very educational and inspiring.

Last part of the evening we spent in a local restaurant right behind the Abbey. Very modern, up-class place with modern and welcoming interior. Small outside seating area located behind the main building, however due to weather condition was closed during our visit.

As we were large group, we pre-ordered the food including starters. The charcuterie board looked amazing and tasted even better! The variety of food on the platter was shocking as we had pickled vegetables such as radish or pumpkin, many kinds of cheeses, hams, sausages dried tomatoes, pork greaves stocks and pates. As a main course I had lamb knee which was exceptional! Very tender, juicy, well seasoned, accompanied with mashed potatoes and tomatoes. I really enjoyed myself and cant really fault anything with regards to the food. As for drinks, we had the same wine as during our wine tasting. It was not the best Riesling in the region, but very decent and refreshing nevertheless.

Visited...

We came here hoping for a historically immersive experience — and perhaps to learn something about winemaking.

Unfortunately, neither of those expectations were met. The building was filled with modern objects clearly intended for events hosted there, rather than for conveying a sense of the past. There was no storytelling or display that offered insight into what life must have been like. Instead of highlighting the fascinating lives of the monks who once lived here, Lego figures were placed in their former quarters (the Lego displays were the best part of the tour.)

There wasn’t even an image or explanation of the winemaking process — a missed opportunity, considering how interesting and rich that craft is.

I would strongly recommend that the museum consider collaborating with reenactment groups or other historical storytellers. For one of Europe’s largest and oldest monasteries, this was a disappointing testament to the centuries of life...

My friends and I visited the abbey in May. We all love the environment and their wine products. Some friends of mine bought 36 bottles of wine and had them delivered to just one address. Unfortunately, the Taiwanese Custom officer in the post office only allowed one person to take 6 bottles and will either destroy the rest or send them back to where they are from. A lady named Marietta Wellmann is helping us to get all the wine by writing some documents to prove that the 36 bottles are for six people, not just one. I'm so touched and really appreciate what she has been doing for us. It's all right if it ends up not being able to get all the wine. However, I think it's obligated to let the public know how good their service is and how kind the people...