Location and classification
Altberg, also known as Auer Altberg, is a registered single-vineyard site in Au in the Baden Baden region. The stand-alone vineyard site covers only a few hectares. Au lies in the Hexental about four kilometres south of Freiburg and is described as the gateway to the Markgräflerland.
History and cultivation
Winegrowing in Au is documented in a charter dated 6 April 868. The soil in the Auer Altberg remains covered with vegetation throughout the year; grasses and herbs are mown. Fertilisation is carried out mainly with cattle manure from the associated business. From vine pruning to grape harvest, the work is carried out entirely by hand.
Grape varieties and wine styles
For the Auer Altberg, wines made from Gutedel, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder, Chardonnay, Müller-Thurgau and Sauvignon Blanc are documented. The range includes dry Qualitätswein, dry Kabinett and dry Prädikatswein. The documented Gutedel is described as low in acid, mild and with a slight natural sparkle, while the Weißburgunder is described as a wine with fruity acidity and full body.
Cellar work
The winery reports gentle pressing and its own cellar monitoring from ageing through to bottling. The wines are mostly aged dry and made with little sulphur.
