Location and Landscape
Alte Burg is an officially designated wine-growing area in Zwingenberg on the Hessische Bergstraße and forms part of the Großlage Auerbacher Rott. The vineyards lie above the historic old town on the Luciberg and the west-facing slope of the Melibokus.
Topography and Soils
The site is among the steepest vineyards along the Bergstraße. It is described as a steep slope, oriented towards the south-west, on the western side of the Melibokus. Shallow, gravelly weathered soils predominate; individual plots have lighter sandy loam soils.
Climate and Cultivation
The landscape plots are characterised by dryness, low nutrient levels, high levels of sunshine and warmth. Because of the steep, finely divided terrain, parts of the site are farmed by hand. For individual plots, organic cultivation is documented; there sheep are used to limit soil compaction and to preserve a habitat for beneficial organisms. After a land consolidation (Flurbereinigung), new plantings were established in 2022.
Grape Varieties and Wine Style
Riesling is a main grape variety of Alte Burg. In addition, Silvaner and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) are documented. In a demonstration vineyard, Scheurebe, Weißer Elbling, Blauer Elbling, Schwarzer Urban, Regent and Johanniter also grow. The Riesling from the steep Zwingenberger sites is characterised as firm and hearty; documented wines from Alte Burg include dry and delicately off-dry Riesling as well as dry Spätburgunder. The wine-growing area was formerly known as Hinter der Alten Burg.
