Geil

In 1871 when Georg Geil, father of Johann Geil, bought the manor house at the heart of the estate, it stood close to the edge of the village. His purchase laid the cornerstone of the Geil Family’s winegrowing tradition in Bechtheim. Winegrowing has a long and proud tradition in Bechtheim. A decree from 1780 by the State Office of the Principality of Leinigen, laid out the specific site names that continue to be used even today. 

The estate bears the name of Johann Geil, who at age ten planted the chestnut tree whose mighty branches stretch high over the property even today. Johann Geil was one of the first producers to bottle wine in Bechtheim. His vision and entrepreneurial spirit weren’t just limited to wine. He was also one of the founders of the Raiffeisenbank and the local commercial cooperative, and served for many years as the town’s mayor. His dedication and wide-ranging service for the citizens and community of Bechtheim earned him the honorary title of Oekonomierat from the Grand Duke zu Hessen und bei Rhein. 

Three generations currently live at the estate run by Johannes and Elisabeth Geil-Bierschenk. The philosophy combines a consistent orientation toward quality, a strong degree of craftsmanship and a gentle touch in the production of their wines, all based around a tradition of family ownership and individual attention. The clear focus of their work is on Riesling, Burgunder and Silvaner varieties. They continue the tradition established by founder Oekonomierat Johann Geil. molding it to fit the demands of today. Johannes is a founding member of the group “Message in a Bottle” which promotes the dynamism and individuality of Rheinhessen.