Longen-Schlöder wine estate

In Longuich, it’s easy to let a winegrower's house.

That may not sound so unusual in and of itself, but with one of Europe’s most renowned designers behind the project, these are no ordinary dwellings.

Ever spent a night in Hamburg’s “Side” hotel, or savoured an espresso from an “Illy” cup? Then you’ve already experienced Matteo Thun’s handicraft.

The Italian visionary follows clear principles in his work: With an eye on sustainability, his design and architecture seek to capture the “genius loci”, or soul of a place.

Sustainability was also on the minds of Sabine and Markus Longen for their WeinKulturGut estate.

It pushed them to commission the star architect to draft an ensemble of 14 winemaker’s cottages — an effort that promptly earned him an Architekturpreis Wein award.

Built from local wood and the same slate in which Mosel wines grow, each unit features its own terrace and small garden.

Guests are welcome to join the Longens in their Vineria, a wine bar offering regional winemaker's fare.

Alongside wine tastings, the WeinkulturGut also hosts exhibits, readings and concerts.