Location and extent
The Bischofsberg, also known as the Rüdesheimer Bischofsberg, is a wine-growing area in Rüdesheim am Rhein in Rheingau. As the westernmost wine-growing area in Rheingau with sediment soils, it covers about 34 hectares. The terrain is gently sloping and is predominantly oriented to the south.
Soils and climate
The soils consist of deep loess and loess-clay deposits with stones and gravel. They are relatively low in lime and have good water-retention capacity. The Niederwald protects the site from cold north winds. The morning Wisper winds reduce persistent moisture and promote faster drying of the vines.
Grape varieties and wine style
Riesling is grown in the area and bottled under the name Rüdesheimer Bischofsberg. Descriptions associate the wines with a full body, pronounced acidity and a ripe character in dry years. Dry and delicately off-dry Rieslings are documented, as are Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese and Trockenbeerenauslese with ageing potential.
Name history
The name goes back to Mainz archbishop Siegfried. In 1074, he approved the clearing of part of the Rüdesheim upper field and granted the residents favourable conditions for establishing vineyards.
