The Weinbottich Heuringer is over 270 years old and was recently named a national monument. Authentic historic artifacts include the old bellows used by the smith, the 200 year old lime tree in the garden and the memorial column giving thanks for a good harvest. The atmosphere is friendly and fun even though you are aware that everything is geared to the tourist.

Since we were part of a tour group, the menu was pre-set. The food, wine and entertainment proved to be much better than we anticipated. We were seated at tables for eight and waitresses in traditional Austrian attire immediately set large glass mugs of white wine before us. Traditional "Schrammelmusic" (fiddle, guitar and accordion music) provided rousing entertainment and allowed for impromptu sing-alongs.

Dinner started with what was described as "pancake soup", a tasty broth containing strips of what appeared to be thinly sliced pancakes. Very Tasty! The main course arrived -- 1/2 herb roasted chicken, a Viener Schnitzel (breaded veal cutlet), spaetzel (tiny dumplings) and the ever-present red cabbage. I usually find this type of "tour group meal" pretty tasteless, but this food was surprisingly tasty, well seasoned, attractively presented and portions were more than adequate. Waitresses reappeared (amazingly!) to refill our wineglasses whenever we "got a bit low."

After dinner, there was time for a short walk around the quaint town of Grinzing before returning to our hotel. If we had more time in Vienna, it might have been better to seek out a less touristy wine tavern, but all things considered, we had a very enjoyable evening, the food was excellent and the wine was plentiful. Local hotels have listings of tour agencies, which provide wine evening excursions and will be happy to assist with such services.