Location and Classification
Altenforst is an officially listed single-vineyard site in Burrweiler and belongs to the wine-growing region Pfalz. The site is located in the Modenbachtal in the northern outskirts of the village, extending towards the opposite Weyherer Michelsberg. In the 2024 vineyard register, Altenforst is listed under number 810102 with 37.3 hectares of planted vineyard area. The VDP classifies 5.00 hectares as VDP.ERSTE LAGE®.
Topography and Soils
The VDP profile describes a south-easterly exposed site at about 265 metres above sea level, with slope gradients of 5 to 15 percent. Around half of the area consists of steep slopes. In the narrow side valley, the grapes ripen with a delay and over a long ripening period. For the classified area, red sandstone is stated; in addition, weathered sandstone, loam, slate and Rotliegend are documented. Slate occurs particularly in deeper or terraced sections towards Weyher.
Grape Varieties and Wine Style
As classified grape varieties, the VDP names Riesling and Spätburgunder. In Altenforst, Schwarzriesling and Kerner are also documented, as well as historically Gewürztraminer and Rieslaner. A Riesling from sandstone is described as full-bodied and extract-rich, with typical Riesling acidity as well as aromas of apricot and peach. A Riesling from Rotliegend presents itself as mineral and spicy, with peach aromas.
Terraces and Maturation
A previously abandoned steep-slope section in the Modenbachtal was recultivated through the construction of terraces and is now part of Altenforst. A documented parcel is terraced and cared for with a nature-oriented approach to cultivation. For a Riesling from Rotliegend, hand-harvesting, fermentation and maturation in stainless steel, as well as extended lees ageing, are recorded.
