Location and classification
The Dominikanerberg is a formally registered single vineyard site in the municipality and cadastral area of Kasel in the Ruwer district of the wine-growing region Mosel. The site lies in the Ruwer valley and is listed under number 450103. It covers around six hectares, is oriented to the south to south-west, and has slopes of up to 50 per cent.
Site conditions
The Dominikanerberg extends to about 360 metres above sea level and is described by the owner as the highest vineyard site in the Ruwer valley. Cool conditions, wind in the upper slope area, and a long ripening period characterise the site. The stony, nutrient-poor soils consist of blue Devon slate.
Cultivation and grape variety
The single vineyard site is entirely owned by the Nell-Breuning family. The owner has worked according to biodynamic principles since 2019 and has been Demeter-certified since 2023. From autumn to spring, Shropshire sheep graze between the vines. Vineyard work is carried out by hand, as is the documented selective harvest. Riesling is grown in the Dominikanerberg; the western side provides grapes for the winery’s Riesling sparkling wine.
Wines and history
The Rieslings from the site are described as mineral-driven and lean, and have documented ageing potential. From the upper area, Auslese, Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese are also produced. In the cellar, spontaneous fermentations are carried out with natural yeasts in stainless steel tanks or traditional Mosel Fuder barrels; in some cases, lees ageing follows for at least until May. For the 1911 vintage, the Russian imperial court ordered 1,100 bottles of Dominikanerberg. In 1974, a Riesling with a corresponding label was served by Chancellor Helmut Schmidt during a state visit by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark.
