Villa Steinbach

1715. A prominent vineyard graces a map of Dresden. This is the future site of Villa Steinbach. Fast forward to the present. Here we stand before Villa Steinbach, a testament to centuries of history. Villa Steinbach isn’t just one building. It’s a captivating ensemble nestled in Oberlößnitz, a district of Radebeul. It includes an older vineyard house, outbuildings, and the elegant villa itself, all surrounded by a lush park and, of course, a vineyard. The story of Villa Steinbach begins around 1650. The earliest vineyard building is thought to have appeared then. A small cellar vault beneath the eastern part of the current building hints at this era. By 1715, the vineyard was substantial enough to be marked on Hans August Nienborg’s map. In 1745, Hofposamentierer Salomon Hesse transformed the simple vineyard house into a two-story manor. He even expanded the cellar. Centuries later, Villa Steinbach housed the Gerhart Hauptmann Archives until 1980. Today, it’s a thriving winery run by the Gerhardt family, producing wines under the Radebeuler Goldener Wagen label. Villa Steinbach’s neoclassical design is a treat. Its symmetrical facade features a central projection capped by a triangular pediment. A charming balcony, supported by Doric columns, adorns the area above the main entrance. Look closely at the door. It’s framed by decorative garlands. The roof dormers are topped with acroteria, adding a classical touch. The interior of Villa Steinbach holds hidden beauty. The vestibule and staircase showcase ornamental paintings from the mid-19th century. The villa itself, then called Villa Zembsch, was constructed around 1835, likely by Christian Gottlieb Ziller. Or possibly by the master builder Traugott Große. Either way, it stands as one of the earliest villas in the Lößnitz area. The Gerhardts have carried on a long legacy of winemaking at Villa Steinbach, spanning over four decades. Their commitment to sustainable practices ensures the preservation of the vineyard for generations to come. In 2017, Gault-Millau praised the minerality of the wines. They noted it was influenced by the nearby syenite slopes. Their 2012 Traminer earned particular acclaim, scoring 87 points. It was hailed as an exemplary Saxon Traminer. Visiting Villa Steinbach is a journey through time. It’s a glimpse into Dresden’s rich viticultural heritage, architectural elegance, and enduring spirit.