Location and classification
Drachenstein is a vineyard site in the Rheingau. The Hessian winegrowing register lists the site under the municipal and district designation of Rüdesheim/Rüdesheim and not under Wiesbaden. The classified area covers 45.00 hectares.
Topography and soils
The site, which is oriented to the south as far as south-southwest, lies at an elevation of between 200 and 308 metres and has a slope gradient of 20 to 40 per cent. Documented parent materials and soils include Taunus quartzite as well as loess loam with sandstone and quartzite. In addition, there are deep soils with notable calcareous components.
Grape varieties and wines
For Rüdesheimer Drachenstein, Riesling and Pinot Noir are listed as the classified grape varieties. The wines from this site are described as floral, elegant and finely spiced. The VDP lists Rüdesheimer Drachenstein as VDP.ERSTE LAGE®; this classification is to be distinguished from the designation in the official winegrowing register.
Name and terraces
The name of the vineyard site is derived from a rock associated with a legendary dragon name. In the Drachenstein Leingipfel area, seven vineyard terraces have been reconstructed, dry-stone walls have been repaired, wall copings have been raised and the plot replanted. Slope gradients of 30 per cent to at least 45 per cent have been documented there.
