Thursday we spent in Melk, Austria. In the morning we visited Nikolaihof winery. It is the oldest winery in Austria, occupying an ancient Roman site that has been in existence for almost 2000 years! The large oak casks are housed in the cellar of the ancient chapel. Fascinating! It is a biodynamic winery, with no herbicides, fertilizers, pesticides or synthetic sprays used in the vineyards. Grapes are harvested by hand. The younger generation has created a line of skin care made from grape seeds. The grounds are lovely, and we tasted three wines - white is the only kind they make. We were served one of the wines at dinner last evening, also.
In the afternoon, we visited Melk Abbey, a Benedictine abbey overlooking the picturesque town of Melk and the Danube. The abbey was founded in 1089. The monastic library is famous for its extensive manuscript collection; a few books or pages are displayed at a time. Beautiful work. The abbey that is there today was built in the 1700s. We were not allowed to photograph inside or in the church, which has to be the gildedest worship space we have ever seen! Many art pieces are also on display in the abbey, as well as ancient vestments, etc. There is a school in the abbey, with about 1000 coed students.
Overnight we sailed to Linz, Austria, where we will tour the town and also a cider farm. Some of the group are instead going by coach to Salzburg (2.5 hours away). We opted not to spend 5 hours on the coach, so are staying in Linz.
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