Geilweilerhof - Institute for Grapevine Breeding

The Geilweilerhof estate was formerly owned by the Cistercian monastery of Eußerthal. The estate was first mentioned in a document in 1184, since then it was burned down during the Palatine Peasants' War, came into Electoral Palatine possession, became a national estate after the French Revolution, when the Palatinate belonged to France, and was then auctioned off. After that, the farm changed hands frequently until it was bought by August Ludowici, a brick manufacturer, in 1895 and developed as a model farm. This is also when the striking tower was built, which can be seen from afar and is very popular as a photo motif. In 1925 Ludowici bequeathed the Geilweilerhof to the county government of the Palatinate with the condition that a vine breeding station be established there.

From that time on, new grape varieties were bred here, one of the first new varieties was the Morio-Muskat, one of the most famous varieties from the work of the JKI (Julius Kühn Institute). Later, from the 70's, there was increased research into fungus-resistant varieties. The best known result of this research is certainly the red wine variety Regent.

In addition to the research department, the institute also houses a winery whose wines can be purchased on site. What is special about this is that the wine list includes not only common varieties such as Riesling or Chardonnay, but also varieties that are not yet approved for the production of quality wine and are commercially available, such as Calardis Musqué or even Gf.Ga-52-42.

Interested people can get an insight into the work of the Institute during the annual Open Day and the Culinary Vineyard Walk.

During the opening hours of the wine sales the outside of the Geilweilerhof can be visited. Very impressive, besides the tower, are the gardens and the view from the pavilion.

One of the most popular photo motifs - especially during the almond blossom season - is the Geilweilerhof with its pink blossoming almond tree avenue! On this public path, which is lined with almond trees on both sides, the imposing sandstone building with its striking tower can be seen from afar and rises majestically out of the sea of blossom in spring.

Opening times

The sale of wine (and thus also the gates) at the Geilweilerhof is open as follows:

Mon-Thu 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Fri 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
and by appointment

closed from December 24 to December 31.