Meenzer Spundekäs

Originally from Mainz, meenzer spundekäs is a type of traditional cream cheese dip or spread. It typically consists of a mixture of cream cheese, quark, sour cream, finely chopped onions, and garlic, seasoned with sweet paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. The dip is usually topped with sliced onions and served with salty pretzels. It is typically paired with a glass of wine or a cold beer. Boiled potatoes and radishes can also accompany the dip, or they can be smeared on bread. Rich and creamy, this cheese dip is a staple at restaurants and wine taverns throughout the region. Besides Mainz, the dip is also commonly consumed throughout Rheinhessen and Rheingau regions. Its name is derived from the German words Spund, referring to the conical cork of a wooden wine barrel, and Käse, meaning cheese. Every year, a Spundekäs competition is held in honor of this Mainz specialty, known as Rheingau sucht den Super-Spundekäs, meaning Rhine District seeks the Super-Spundekäs.