Site and Topography
The Windesheim Fels lies in Windesheim in the Nahe wine-growing region. The south-facing slope of the Römerberg, which falls to the south, is made up predominantly of steep vineyards; around 90 percent are described as steep sites and 10 percent as hillside sites. The warm location, oriented from the south to the south-west, is additionally protected by a rock face.
Soil and Cultivation
Characteristic is red Bunter sandstone with visible sandstone outcrops. The soils are described as medium-deep, sandy loam over weathered, jagged rock with a high proportion of fine earth, as well as shallow, stony to rocky sandstone soils. Species-rich ground cover is documented, as is organic fertilisation with straw and compost.
Grape Varieties and Wine Style
At the Windesheimer Fels, Riesling and Burgunder varieties grow above all, including Riesling, Weißburgunder and Grauburgunder. Documented Rieslings are aged dry or sweet and show lively acidity as well as citrus and exotic fruit aromas. They are described as suitable for ageing.
Vinification and History
For Rieslings from the site, hand harvest, a maceration time of up to 12 to 24 hours, gentle pressing and fermentation in large wooden casks with natural yeasts are documented. The wines mature for at least six to nine months on the full lees. The exposed sandstone outcrops are said to have given the site its name; in the surrounding area, vines were already cultivated around 2,000 years ago.
