Niederschleinz: Cellar Lane, Winegrowing and History

Niederschleinz offers several distinct points of interest for a stay: winegrowing, regional history and religious art. The cellar lane lies on a gentle ridge and offers a panorama; the Hiatakeller recalls its former function as accommodation for vineyard guards. Other highlights include the Maria Immaculata Marian column and the Hummel winery, which produces Grüner Veltliner. The view of the cellar lane is shaped by the landscape, while the cellar, column and winery reveal other aspects of the village.

Cellar Lane and Landscape

Niederschleinz cellar lane lies north of the village on the gentle ridge of the Ried Hinterdorfer. Its position on the ridge offers a panorama. The field name specifically identifies the ridge; the location north of the village situates the cellar lane in relation to the settlement. The gentle ridge and the panorama describe different aspects of the same landscape: its topographical setting and the view. This means the cellar lane can be understood both through its location and through its character in the landscape.

The Hiatakeller and Its Former Use

The Hiatakeller in Niederschleinz was built around 1880 and served as a living and sleeping quarters for vineyard guards until 1947. Its function therefore included both a place to stay and a sleeping area for the guards. This gives a concrete picture of the former work carried out in the vineyards. Unlike the cellar lane, whose location and panorama define its connection to the landscape, the Hiatakeller is chiefly notable for its historical use. The date “until 1947” refers to this former function.

Maria Immaculata on the L 1215

In the vineyards on the L 1215 between Straning and Niederschleinz stands the Neo-Baroque sandstone column of Maria Immaculata. Beneath a capital featuring an angel's head, it depicts the praying Mary standing on a globe and a snake. The material, style and figure give the artwork several identifiable features: sandstone as its material, its Neo-Baroque design, and the elements depicted on the capital and the figure of Mary. These details offer a distinct way to explore religious art in Niederschleinz, different from the description of the cellar lane's landscape.

Local History in Two Time Periods

The area around Niederschleinz was part of the Great Moravian Empire in the 9th century. This statement refers to the area surrounding the village. The place name “Slunz” is first mentioned in a deed of gift dating to around 1062. These are two different historical perspectives: the earlier affiliation of the wider area and a later mention of the village's name. The two time periods can be kept distinct rather than combined into a single account of local history.

Grüner Veltliner at the Hummel Winery

At the Hummel winery in Niederschleinz, Grüner Veltliner accounts for 70 percent of production. The variety is offered in five different styles. The figures describe different things: the percentage indicates its share of production, while the five styles refer to the versions of Grüner Veltliner available. Production shares and the selection may change over time, so check the current selection before booking a tasting. Wine tastings are available by appointment. If you plan to visit for a tasting, arrange a time directly with the winery.

For the broader travel overview: Sitzendorf An Der Schmida.