The historical term “Weinmesser” (wine measurers) dates back a long time and is of utmost significance for the history of South Tyrol.

The term, in fact, is still commonly used with some of the local farms in the area around Merano. The “Weinmesser“ effectively were certified government officers whose job was to control and measure the quality of the wine produced by the farmers, and all the equipment such as the kegs and barrels used to store the wine. They thus guaranteed the health and quality of the local wine and were of vital importance to the farmers’ lives. The “Weinmesser“ were also in charge of transporting the wine to the clients, which back in the days was a real event which happened only once per year, and was duly celebrated with a quaint meal on the farms in which both the officials and the farmers participated.

In order to be appointed “Weinmesser“, one would have to undergo intense scrutiny by the local communities. One would have to boast an impressive, faultless palmares and a certain wealth in order to be even considered for this respectable position.
As you may have already guessed, what is now Hotel Der Weinmesser also used to be a wine-producing farm which would have to have to meet the strict quality requirements of the officials. Now we hope and trust that our hotel will stand up to your scrutiny! In 2010, the hotel now boasts many additional facilities such as no less than two wine cellars, a wine parlour, a winter garden, a new dining hall and superb wellness area which includes an outdoor pool and sauna area. There are also six newly constructed suites in the annexe. Welcome to unforgettable gourmet holidays in South Tyrol, at Hotel Der Weinmesser!

Timeline

1962 The hotel is constructed as a modest bed and breakfast place featuring only 15 beds and one shower per floor. It is managed by Hildegard Frei, the grandmother of today’s manager Christian Kohlgruber. Franz Frei, his grandfather, is in charge of the small nearby vineyard.

1967 The top floor is extended to create a total of 27 beds. Anneliese Frei and Pepi Kohlgruber get married, and acquire additional vineyards and fields around the hotel.

1981 The second part of the hotel is built. The hotel now includes a total of 40 beds and all rooms are equipped with showers and bathrooms. The formerly modest bed and breakfast place is crowned a 3*** hotel.

1994 The pool and sauna areas are added.

1998 The dining room is constructed along with a private apartment for Christian Kohlgruber and his wife Doris, who have been sharing the running of the hotel since their wedding in November 1998.

1999 The hotel lounge and reception are renovated.

2009 The hotel undergoes a complete renovation.