Grolsheim in Rheinhessen
Grolsheim is a municipality in Rheinhessen and is connected to the single vineyard site Ölberg. The location belongs to the sub-region of Bingen and to the large vineyard site St. Rochuskapelle.
History
Grolsheim was first mentioned in 772 and at that time lay in the historical Wormsgau. Earlier forms of the name were Grandfesheim, Graulfesheim and Graolfesheim; in the 16th century the name Grolsheim became established.
The Ölberg vineyard site
The Grolsheim Ölberg comprises around 24 hectares of vineyard area, lies at an altitude of about 100 metres and faces west. The soil consists of gravel, sand and loam and was formed as a Rigosol from deposits of glacial-age river sediments. It is medium-depth, stony and sandy loam, water-permeable and well aerated, with a low supply of nutrients and good heat storage.
Wine character and name history
The site shows an affinity for Pinot varieties; in addition, various grape varieties are grown there. The wines are predominantly red and show herbal-spiced aromas, a firm structure, freshness and creaminess, juiciness, density, pronounced weight on the palate, length and potential for ageing. The Ölberg was first documented in 1727 as auff der öhlbach. One interpretation traces the name back to an earlier oil mill, while another links it to the biblical Mount of Olives.
