Location and extent
The Geiershölle is a single vineyard in the municipality of Klein-Winternheim in Rheinhessen. The documented vineyard area covers 46 hectares. The site extends from 140 to 220 metres above sea level; its aspect faces from west to south. The slopes form a natural amphitheatre oriented to the south-west.
Soils
In the Geiershölle, among other soils, calcareous rendzinas occur from tertiary marine deposits with limestone reef material, as well as marl-pelosols from calcareous, loamy tertiary marine deposits. The rendzinas are shallow to medium-depth, stony and sandy-loamy, and store only a small amount of plant-available water. The pelosols are deep and rich in clay, strongly calcareous, and are characterised by limited water flow and aeration. Within the site, the soil structure ranges from barren, stony soils to clay soils with limestone inclusions and loess layers.
Wine style
On the calcareous rendzinas, wines are made with citrus-, apple- and gooseberry profiles, which later can develop into notes of tropical fruit. They show balanced acidity and a mineral character. The marl-pelosols are associated with fuller, denser wines, moderate acidity, a creamy texture, and ripe stone fruit and melon notes.
Name and classification
The name Geiershölle is traced back to the earlier presence of birds of prey such as goshawks or buzzards. During clearing work for the establishment of vineyards, limestone foundations were discovered in 1953. Roman roof tiles found later were interpreted on site as an indication of a possible watchtower in connection with the ancient Moguntiacum. Under wine law, Geiershölle is classified as a single vineyard in the Nierstein area, within the Großlage Domherr, within the Qualitätswein–Anbaugebiet Rheinhessen.
