Location and Topography
Eck, also known as Altenahrer Eck, is a vineyard site in Altenahr in the Ahr winegrowing region. It lies in a narrow section of the Ahr valley between the ruins of Are Castle in the west and the Ravenley rock formation above Reimerzhoven in the east. The slopes facing south to south-east are at around 150 to 260 metres above sea level and have gradients of roughly 40 to 60 per cent.
Soils and Farming
The steep, terraced vineyards, which are difficult to cultivate, are mostly found on dark greywacke and weathered slate with a high proportion of rock. In the site profile, slate and greywacke are named as the most important soil materials. The dark, stony soils absorb the sun’s warmth and release it to the vines again during the night. The summer microclimate is described as almost Mediterranean.
Grape Varieties and Wines
For Eck, Spätburgunder and Riesling are listed as the most important grape varieties. From the Deutzerhof’s vineyards at Altenahrer Eck, Riesling ice wine is produced on a regular basis. The wines from the greywacke sections are described as full-bodied and firm; overall, the wines of the site are regarded as off-dry or piquant.
Name and Classification
The name of the vineyard site goes back to the medieval castle complex Ekka, which was demolished in 1249. Eck in Altenahr is listed as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® with a classified area of 3.37 hectares; Spätburgunder and Riesling are permitted. For the Riesling vineyards, the Deutzerhof restored the vineyard walls and, in connection with the ice wine production, built a monorack railway.
