Leimen

Leimen lies on the south-eastern tip of the Neckar alluvial cone in the Rhein-Neckar region of Baden-Württemberg and forms part of the wine-growing region Baden. The town has been documented since 791; even in that context, vineyards are mentioned. A long wine-growing tradition is also symbolised by the grape in the town’s coat of arms.

The Herrenberg extends north of Leimen towards Heidelberg. The south-west-facing site lies at about 180 metres above sea level and has slopes of between 10 and 20 per cent; individual plots slope down towards the west and south. The soils consist of loess and shell limestone, as well as shallow layers containing weathered limestone material. The Herrenberg was mentioned in the 16th century as a vineyard of the Teutonic Order and is listed by the VDP as VDP.ERSTE LAGE in the Baden growing area.

The Kreuzweg is oriented to the south-west and, with the forest providing additional protection, is shielded from cold easterly winds. The deep, heavy loess-clay soils have a substantial topsoil layer rich in humus, which is stated locally to be up to 20 metres. They are low in coarse components, can store water, and allow the vines even during dry summer periods to access water and nutrients deep down. A historical record documents an inherited leased vineyard there for 1791 and 1792.

For the Herrenberg, Riesling, Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau and Spätburgunder have been documented; as classified grape varieties, the VDP names Spätburgunder and Chardonnay. The wines are described as fruity, mineral and elegant. The Kreuzweg is suitable for red grape varieties, for Burgundy varieties and for aromatic varieties. Under its mild, south-west-facing conditions, wines are produced with pronounced aromas as well as comparatively low, harmonious acidity.