Location and Natural Setting
Wüstenrot is a municipality covering an area of 30.02 km² in the south-east of the Heilbronn district in Baden-Württemberg. The larger part lies within the natural region of the Mainhardter Wald, while a smaller south-western area extends into the Löwensteiner Berge. The municipality lies entirely within the Schwäbisch-Fränkischer Wald nature park.
Elevation and Geology
The municipal area extends from around 270 metres above sea level in the Brettachtal to approximately 561 metres at the Raitelberg. The main settlement is located on a Stubensandstone high plateau at roughly 500 metres. The landscape is predominantly shaped by Stubensandstone; in deeper valley locations, formations of the Middle Keuper, including Gipskeuper, come to the surface. The climate is described as relatively cool.
Vine-Growing Connection
The Geddelsbacher Schneckenhof is located in Geddelsbach, a district that has belonged to Bretzfeld since 1975, and not within the municipal area of Wüstenrot. The vineyards are situated on sunny slopes around the winery and have heavy Keuper soils. Vine-growing in Geddelsbach has been documented since 1573; the local vineyard sites are used predominantly for white wine. Further information is provided in the entry for the Schneckenhof.
