Weingut Blankenhorn

The Story of the House

Weingut Blankenhorn has a rich history dating back to 1624. Originally, it served as a horse-changing station for long-distance carriage travel. Over time, it evolved into a post office and the well-regarded inn, “Zum Baselstab,” known for its exceptional cuisine under the stewardship of Joseph Walz. In 1847, Johann Friedrich Blankenhorn, affectionately known as Fritz, took ownership and established a winery alongside a farm. For five generations, the Blankenhorn family nurtured this winery until Rosie Blankenhorn passed it on to Yvonne and Martin Mannen in 2014, as she could not find a successor among her daughters.

Uncovering the Past

During recent restoration efforts, the winery's long-standing history was revealed. The original walls and door frames showcased the Baselstab, which inspired the inn's name and featured the initials JW, representing Joseph Walz. The Basel staff symbolizes the honor of the Basel bishops, to whom the municipality of Schliengen belonged for centuries. This emblem is now proudly associated with the winery, reflecting its deep-rooted traditions.

Crafting Natural Wines

At Weingut Blankenhorn, wine is treated as a natural product that flourishes with careful cultivation. The winery focuses on a select few grape varieties, ensuring each receives the attention it deserves. Pruning is done with an emphasis on reducing yield to enhance quality. Multiple harvests take place in the vineyard, allowing only the finest grapes to be chosen. This meticulous approach requires significant manual labor and dedication at every stage of production.