15 Monasteries Around the World That Wine Lovers Must Visit for an Unforgettable Tasting Experience
If you’re a wine lover, then visiting a monastery for a wine tasting is an experience you don’t want to miss. Monasteries are known for producing some of the finest wines in the world, and their vineyards often have a rich history that adds to the overall charm of the experience.
Here’s our list of top 15 monasteries around the world where you can enjoy an unforgettable wine tasting:
1. Abbey of Saint-Hilaire – France
Located in southern France, this abbey has been producing wines since the 16th century. They specialize in sparkling wines and are famous for inventing Blanquette de Limoux.
2. Kloster Eberbach – Germany
This impressive monastery was founded back in 1136 and is located near Frankfurt. They produce high-quality Riesling that has won many awards throughout Europe.
3. Monastery of Our Lady of Montserrat – Spain
Situated on top of a mountain near Barcelona, this Benedictine monastery produces both red and white wines with exceptional quality.
4. Abbazia di Novacella – Italy
Established in 1142, this picturesque abbey nestled among mountains produces various types of white wine such as Sylvaner or Gewürztraminer.
5. Château de Jau – France
Nestled at foothills Pyrenees Mountains, this former Benedictine abbey dating back from XII century offers flavorful Grenache noir based blends bursting with flavor alongside stunning views over Roussillon region vineyards
6. Domaine de l’Hortus- France
Located close to Montpellier city center overlooking Pic Saint-Loup Massif, This Cistercian monks-built property boasts excellent Syrah-based reds as well as fresh whites made from Viognier grapes
7. Convento do Espinheiro- Portugal
Once housing Augustine friars order till XIX Century, this former convent in Alentejo region is now a luxury hotel and still produces its own wines using traditional techniques.
8. Klosterneuburg Monastery – Austria
This impressive Baroque monastery near Vienna has been making wine for over 900 years. They produce both red and white wines with excellent quality.
9. Pannonhalma Archabbey- Hungary
Located close to Budapest, this Benedictine abbey established in 996 AD offers an extensive portfolio of crisp whites and bold reds produced by local varietals such as Furmint or Kékfrankos
10. Monasterio de San Zoilo – Spain
Situated within the heart of Castilla y Leon winemaking area, This XII century building turned into a modern accommodation facility also produces Tempranillo-based reds along with fantastic oak-aged whites made from Viura grapes
11. Kartause Mauerbach – Austria
Nestled in the picturesque Vienna Woods, This Carthusian abbey founded back in XIII century hosts its own vineyards producing luscious Grüner Veltliner wines.
12. Abbaye Notre-Dame des Dombes- France
Found between Lyon and Geneva close to Ain riverbanks, this Cistercian monastery cultivates Gamay grape variety leading to fruity vibrant wines perfect for summer afternoons on the terrace.
13. Santa Maria de la Vid Abbey – New Mexico
One of two wineries located on American soil included on our list; this Trappist community is situated just outside Albuquerque offering complex Cabernet Sauvignon blends alongside different Chardonnays.
14. Holy Cross Abbey Winery – Colorado Springs
The second US-based entry on our list; Located near Pikes Peak mountain range at altitude above 7k feet, This Benedictine-run winery boasts delicious Merlot-based reds as well as refreshing Rieslings .
15. Andechs Monastery – Germany
Last but not least, this Benedictine monastery located near Munich offers a wide variety of beers and wines. Their beer is famous throughout Germany, while their wines are rare and exceptional.
In conclusion, visiting a monastery for wine tasting is an experience that takes you back in time as you savor the rich history and culture of these ancient places. Each winery on our list offers something unique to their visitors from picturesque views to award-winning blends that will make your taste buds sing with joy. So next time you’re planning a trip abroad or locally within US borders, consider adding a visit to one of these monasteries for an unforgettable wine tasting experience.