The Rosenbachpalais, located on Residenzplatz opposite the north wing of the former prince-bishop's residence in Würzburg, is the organizational center of the Hofkeller State Winery. A stainless-steel band set into the floor, symbolizing the course of the River Main, leads into the Hofkeller vinotheque in the Rosenbach Palace. In the showrooms, the wines are always presented on those stone formations which particularly suit the respective grape variety as the subsoil in the vineyard.
Those who prefer a more atmospheric experience will be delighted to take part in one of the numerous exploratory tours of the wine cellars beneath the Residenz. Soon 5000 square meters (53.800 square feet) of cellar area are accessible there. The cellar corridors cover a total length of almost one kilometer (half a mile), and on the paths through the labyrinth of corridors one comes to veritable cellar cathedrals which reach up to seven meters (22 feet) in height and have an arch span of up to ten meters (33 feet). The paths and vaulted cellars under the Residenz, which are most used by the public, all have long since been fitted with atmospheric lighting and have most recently been equipped with numerous information panels, which are mounted in the form of a surrounding wall frieze. Display counters and wine libraries have been incorporated as independent works of art with a utilitarian effect, and the most sacred spaces are staged with light and color. The barrel cellar has a sensational effect, and the treasury in the Bacchus cellar may of course be viewed by the guest. Even the underground of the court church in the south wing can be inspected. This is where the red wines of the Hofkeller are vinified.
