Heinz Winkler knows about stars. At least, he knows a thing or two about the kind that chefs and restaurants receive in acknowledgement of their excellence. He's a 20-time recipient of a three Michelin-star rating, a 14-time recipient of at least a 19-point rating from Gault Millau, and the winner of nearly every other award the culinary world has to offer.

Master chef Heinz Winkler on the terrace of his "Residenz Heinz Winkler"

© Residenz

The South-Tirole chef has managed his own restaurant - the Hotel Residenz Heinz Winkler - in Chiemgau since 1991. The building was constructed during the late middle ages and served as the "Hotel Post" for several centuries. Winkler himself was responsible for the scrupulous restoration, and the resulting building is now as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds, complemented by a stunning Alpine view from every window.

Italian splendor

The majesty of the building's history has been well-preserved with subtle modernizations where necessary. The result is a hotel with 33 rooms, a spa, garden salon, post office, and the Venetian-style restaurant where the chef performs his art. An atmosphere full of Italian charm and splendor prevails throughout, with half-round mirrors, marble pillars, white wooden ceilings, and soft yellow walls adorned with artworks providing a rich picture of provincial luxury.

Light cuisine with legendary sauces

"Cuisine Vitale" is the expression Heinz Winkler uses to describe his work. This includes "mild smoked sturgeon with wasabi and shies cress", "anglerfish with young garlic and carrots", and "saddle of lamb with mediterranean herbs". All are served with Winkler's famous gentle sauces - maybe an orange-fennel sauce for a St Pierre fish, maybe one with cinnamon for a rabbit dish with pasta. At the end of every meal there are always tears - in this case chocolate tears, severed with pineapple and passionfruit.

Heinz Winkler's approach to cooking values aromas over effects, and the art of preparation over experimentation. The chef recieved a further 19 points in the 2012 Gault Millau guide, and two Michelin stars.

Residenz Heinz Winkler, Kirchplatz 1, 83229 Aschau, Tel.: Tel. (0 80 52) 1 79 90, www.residenz-heinz-winkler.de