Location and classification
Engelsberg is a German single-vineyard site in the municipality of Nackenheim in the Nierstein area of the wine-growing region Rheinhessen. The vineyards are located at an elevated position between Nackenheim and Nierstein, close to the River Rhine.
Soil and climate
The soil is described as Rotliegend/Rigosol: a shallow to medium-deep, calcareous, stony, clayey loam with good heat absorption and limited water storage available to plants. The Rotliegend consists of calcareous deposits of clay and fine sand. According to municipal wine-growing information, the nearby River Rhine contributes to warmer conditions in the vineyards.
Grape varieties and wine style
Riesling is documented for Engelsberg; traditionally, Silvaner and Gewürztraminer are also grown at the site. The Engelsberg parcels of the winery Elisabethenhof in the Rotliegend are planted exclusively with Riesling. According to the site profile, the wines can show herbal, finely spiced and almost floral notes, mineral components and aromas of stone fruit and melon, a lively acidity and potential for ageing.
Designation
Engelsberg is, according to the wine designation statutes of the municipality of Nackenheim from 1966, a legally used wine designation. The name is derived from a personal name such as Engelbert.
