Wwe. Dr. H. Thanisch, Erben Thanisch wine estate

This estate house on the banks of the Mosel harkens back to an age where Mosel Rieslings were among the most expensive wines in the world.

It was built in a Neo-Renaissance style in 1894 based on designs by Frankfurt architect Theodor Schmidt, who soon thereafter planned Schloss Lieser in the neighbouring town.

Two balconies are placed above one another on the slate façade of the elegant villa, with a decorative jutty on the southwest corner.

A winding staircase rises to the entranceway. Sandstone balustrades and decorative columns reflect the affluence of its owner.

That was Dr Hugo Thanisch. While his family had been active in winegrowing since the 17th century, his firm hand navigated the estate to the forefront of the wine world in the mid-19th century.

His wines found spots on the lists of the finest restaurants and claimed spectacular prices at auction.

Perhaps the estate's most famous vineyard is the legendary Bernkasteler Doctor.

Also notable: the past four generations of leaders at this estate have all been women. Today it is Sofia Thanisch's turn to shepherd the journey of the estate’s outstanding Rieslings from vine to bottle.