Niederschleinz can be explored through a range of topics: early local history, religious art in the vineyards, the cellar lane and viticulture. You can consider these themes separately when planning your stay. History is reflected in regional and linguistic references to different periods; the column is defined by its material and figure, and the cellar lane by its location and panorama. At Weingut Hummel, one grape variety and tastings by appointment take centre stage.
History and Religious Art
In the 9th century, the area around Niederschleinz belonged to the Great Moravian Empire. The place name “Slunz” is first mentioned in a deed of donation dating to around 1062. The dates span the period from the 9th century to the first recorded mention of the name; these refer to different things, since the first reference concerns the area, while the second explicitly concerns the place name.
The neo-Baroque sandstone column of Maria Immaculata stands among the vineyards on the L 1215 between Straning and Niederschleinz. Beneath a capital featuring an angel’s head, it depicts the praying Virgin Mary standing on a globe and a serpent. Three aspects can be distinguished here: neo-Baroque describes the stylistic classification, sandstone the material, and the figure and capital the specific design. If you are interested in religious art, this column offers both an architectural and a figurative perspective.
The Hiatakeller in Niederschleinz offers another perspective on viticulture. It was built around 1880 and served as a place for vineyard guards to rest and sleep until 1947. The building is therefore associated with a specific historical use, not merely an approximate construction date. The cellar represents the historical working and living conditions of vineyard guards.
Cellar Lane and Landscape
The Niederschleinz cellar lane lies north of the village on the gentle ridge of the Ried Hinterdorfer. Its position on the ridge offers a panorama. Here, compass direction and landform help orient visitors: its position to the north describes its location relative to the village, while Ried Hinterdorfer is the name of the ridge. Unlike the column, whose material and visual design take centre stage, the cellar lane is defined by its topographical setting. If you are looking for a landscape connection during your stay, the two topics offer clearly distinct perspectives.
Viticulture and Tastings
At Weingut Hummel in Niederschleinz, GrĂĽner Veltliner accounts for 70 percent of production and is offered in five different styles. The production share and range may change. Wine tastings are available by appointment. These two product details describe different aspects of the winery: the production share shows the importance of the grape variety, while the five styles indicate the range on offer. If you would like to plan a tasting, arrange a date with the winery.
For the wider travel overview: Sitzendorf An Der Schmida.
