Location and Aspect
Engelstein is a single-vineyard site in the Bopparder Hamm in the wine-growing region Mittelrhein. The hillside lies between Boppard and Spay, forms the eastern boundary of the Bopparder Hamm and borders directly on the Rhine. The south to south-west exposure allows the sun to shine until the late evening and gives the site a sunny microclimate.
Relief and Soil
The vineyard has a slope gradient of around 60 percent. The altitude is given in the VDP site profile as approximately 90 to 150 metres above sea level; the descriptive text mentions a range of 80 to 160 metres. The soil consists of weathered Devonian slate with volcanic pumice stone inclusions from the surrounding area of the Eifel maars. The iron content gives the Devonian slate a reddish colouring.
Grape Variety and Classification
For the classified site, Riesling is specified. Engelstein is classified within the Bopparder Hamm as VDP.GROSSE LAGE®; the classified area covers about 2.00 hectares. The Riesling wines of the site are described by the producing winery as having intense, fruity and spicy aromas.
Viticulture History
Viticulture in Boppard is documented in a record from the year 643. Viticulture in the Bopparder Hamm during Roman times is assumed, taking into account the Roman military camp Bodobrica and the importance of wine for the military’s provisions.
