When, in the wake of the French Revolution, the refectories of secularized monasteries were repurposed as cowsheds, no one could have imagined that this would lay the foundation for approximately 300 “cow chapels” in Rheinhessen. In the 19th century, master mason Franz Ostermayer from Eisenberg in the Palatinate developed barn designs featuring cross vaults modeled after old monastery refectories, which were primarily built in Rheinhessen. In the 1970s, these luxurious stables were converted into wine tasting rooms, retail spaces, and wine taverns, and today they are considered a hallmark of Rheinhessen for stylish wine enjoyment.

In 1999, the Rheinhessen Wine Cellars Association was founded, which represents the region through cultural and culinary events. “The Rheinhessen Wine Cellars are a symbol of Rheinhessen,” the jury notes, and presents the Best of Award to the association of 43 cellar owners who preserve this architectural heritage and unique feature of Rheinhessen.