Location and landscape
Klettgau is a municipality in Baden, the area of which extends over the Klettgau valley and reaches as far as the Swiss border. Elevations are approximately between 366 and 690 metres above sea level. Grape growing is concentrated on south-facing slopes and valley edges.
Soils and climate
The Kapellenberg lies on geological formations of the Middle and Lower Jurassic, including opalinus clay. Local descriptions also mention black Jurassic material with heavy, clay-rich loam. For grape growing, recurring damage caused by winter and late frosts as well as summer hail damage has been documented.
Wine-growing history
Wine growing in Klettgau is documented as far back as Roman times. Later, it was linked to sunny slopes and the influence of the Rheinau monastery. The name Kapellenberg goes back to a hill chapel built in 1946; thereafter, vineyard and wine took over this designation.
Grape varieties and wine
Today, Spätburgunder is the most important documented grape variety; in addition, Müller-Thurgau is grown. Spätburgunder from the Kapellenberg is documented as a red wine. Historically, Elbling was also widespread because of its high yields and its comparatively tolerance of local conditions. To combat vine diseases, spraying with copper vitriol was introduced in 1886; at the same time, lower planting densities and limited yields were intended to improve grape quality.
