Carl Schmitt-Wagner Winery has a rich, unique history. Beginning in 1804, the Schmitt-Wagner family cultivated vineyards in the beautiful Mosel River village of Longuich, Germany. The vineyards previously belonged to the Benedictine Convent of St. Maximin in Trier, but were then secularized and made available for purchase by Napoleon Bonaparte. During this time, it was widely known that the clergy owned only the very finest vineyards. So this purchase from Napoleon Bonaparte, although quite expensive, was a worthwhile investment. In fact, a member of the Schmitt-Wagner family had to travel a great distance to make the purchase, while carrying a very heavy load of gold coins on her back in a wooden "hotte". (A "hotte" is normally used for carrying grapes in the vineyard.) Two centuries later, the Schmitt-Wagner family continues to value that purchase, as they know that top quality vineyards are the foundation for all high-level wines. The winery is old-fashioned in its beliefs, practices, and most of all, its commitment to quality. Dedication to quality is a duty and a tradition at Carl Schmitt-Wagner Winery.

History of the Maximiner Monks