Location and geography
Abtsberg is the single vineyard of Maximin Grünhaus in Mertesdorf in the Ruwertal of the Mosel. The vineyard lies on the left bank of the Ruwer, about two kilometres from where it flows into the Mosel. Together with Herrenberg and Bruderberg, it forms part of the contiguous vineyard holdings of Maximin Grünhaus.
Relief and soils
The south to south-easterly facing site ranges from around 150 to 250 metres above sea level. Its very steep slopes have inclines of roughly 50 to 70 percent, in some areas up to 75 percent. The soil consists of blue Devonian slate and slate weathering.
Cultivation and wines
Maximin Grünhaus cultivates Abtsberg as a monopoly. Natural herb and grass sowings as well as intensive work with the leaves are part of the cultivation. The extreme steep slope requires handwork and results in limited production volumes. For the site, Riesling has been documented; in addition, Pinot Noir was planted in 2007. Riesling is recorded as Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese and Grosses Gewächs, as well as Pinot Noir as Grosses Gewächs.
History and winemaking
Abtsberg of St. Maximin Abbey is first documented as a vineyard site in 966. Archaeological evidence points to vine growing in Grünhaus already in Roman times; since the 10th century, the place has been associated with the Benedictine abbey of St. Maximin in Trier. In the VDP.GROSSE-LAGE system, the site is listed as “Abtsberg, Maximin Grünhaus”. The classified area comprises 13 hectares; the larger vineyard is described as 14 hectares. The grapes are taken to the press within a few minutes and are fermented with natural yeasts in traditional wooden oak fuder barrels or small stainless-steel tanks.
