Who is Stefanie Wild?
Alongside running the family business, she enjoys spending her time with her husband and their two children. Describing herself as someone who appreciates the finer things in life, she has a passion for good regional wines, pursues her hobby of abstract painting, and loves exploring the Rheinhessen landscape by bike. After finishing school, Stefanie Wild completed training as a hotel specialist, which allowed her, as she puts it, to discover wine “from a different perspective than that of a winemaker.” She later qualified as a cultural and wine ambassador for Rheinhessen. These ambassadors introduce guests and locals alike to the region’s history, culture, landscapes, and wine heritage, bringing Rheinhessen to life through guided tours and events.
Rheinhessen: A Region Close to Her Heart
“My home region is truly wonderful. There are so many stories to tell and so much to discover when it comes to wine,” says Stefanie Wild. She is eager to share this enthusiasm with both guests from around the world and the people who call the region home. She is particularly fascinated by the interplay between wine, culture, and landscape. She loves “the openness of the people, the vastness of the countryside, and the unique glow of nature.” It is important to her to show just how much work, passion, and personality go into wine production, and how deeply a region can be experienced through its wine. For the hotel manager, one thing is certain: Rheinhessen has far more to offer than meets the eye. “If we create experiences that stand for our region, Rheinhessen has no need to hide,” she says.
Creating Memorable Wine Tourism
For Stefanie Wild, what matters most is an engaging atmosphere that links different themes to wine while appealing to various target groups. Specifically, she is thinking of offerings that combine wine with activities such as outdoor yoga, singing bowl sessions, or even hula hooping. Authenticity plays a major role for Stefanie Wild: It is important for her to offer her guests a genuine experience rather than just a wine tasting. This calls for staff who are truly guest-oriented and equipped with the skills to ensure a high-quality experience from arrival to departure. “Our guests also appreciate the opportunity to meet inspiring people during their stay, such as authentic and charismatic local guides. Many return to us time and again because these personal encounters leave a lasting impression.“ Not only her guests, but also Stefanie Wild herself has experienced many unforgettable moments at Weinzuhause. For example, the hotel owner recalls a spontaneous marriage proposal. Or that one time when a Swedish family passing through purchased so much wine that their children no longer fit in the car.“When guests feel comfortable and open up, it creates a sense of family,” Wild reflects.
The Future of Wine Tourism in Rheinhessen
“Something new is taking shape in Rheinhessen“, Stefanie Wild notes. “There are numerous wine festivals, and many of my colleagues are deeply committed to showcasing the region.“ Nevertheless, she believes that closer collaboration is needed and that everyone involved in wine tourism in Rheinhessen should take pride in representing and promoting the region’s brand. At her own hotel, Wild has many more ideas she hopes to realize over the next five years. “More experiences, more moments that make guests feel at ease,” she reveals.
Why Hospitality Matters More Than Ever
“Being a host in the wine industry is always worthwhile, now more than ever. Especially for wineries that are eager to explore new paths, welcome guests, and bring the world of wine to life,” explains Stefanie Wild. She also emphasizes the importance of enjoying wine in moderation. When asked what wine represents to her beyond the product itself, Wild’s answer is clear: “Wine brings people together! Whether at a sparkling wine reception, a celebration, or any other occasion, it lies at the heart of shared experiences and memorable moments.” For those in the industry, this offers an opportunity to further strengthen Rheinhessen’s presence and identity. According to Wild, exceptional guest experiences are built on genuine connections, with strong networks providing the foundation for lasting encounters. Above all, the hostess hopes to inspire the next generation with the belief that entrepreneurship should always be approached with a sense of fun and curiosity. “Don’t let yourself be discouraged – just do your thing!,” she advises.
Author: Marielen Notzon, Rheinhessen-Touristik GmbH Photos credits: © Stefanie Wild, Weinzuhause / © Rheinhessenwein e.V., Alexander Sell