Location and landscape
Oberstenfeld is situated in the upper Bottwartal in the north-eastern edge of the Ludwigsburg district, between the Neckar basin and the Swabian-Franconian Forest. The municipal area extends from around 236 to 539 metres above sea level. West of the settlement, the slopes covered with vineyards rise up at the Forstberg and at the Wunnenstein.
Viticulture on the Forstberg
Oberstenfeld is a wine-growing municipality in the wine-growing region Württemberg. The Forstberg is classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® and comprises an officially designated area of 24 hectares. The site, which faces from south to south-west, lies at an elevation of 320 to 360 metres, has a slope gradient of 45 to 55 per cent and is characterised by Buntsandstein marl (Bunter Mergel). The classified grape varieties recorded are Spätburgunder and Weißer Burgunder.
Preservation of the vineyard areas
For vineyard areas usable for agricultural purposes, Oberstenfeld has a preservation obligation documented in accordance with its bylaws. Disused or cleared plots must, after the proper removal of vines, roots, posts, wires and anchors, be maintained at least through grazing or mowing.
Historical context
Oberstenfeld developed during the early medieval development of the land. A religious foundation was established here around 1016. In 1357 the place came under Württemberg protection and in 1803 it became definitively part of Württemberg. The Lichtenberg Castle, located above Oberstenfeld, was built around 1200 and is connected with the municipality’s historical wine landscape.
