Location and landscape
Grossenberg is referred to by the local administration as Staufenberger Grossenberg in Staufenberg, a district of Gernsbach in Baden. The hillside lies at an altitude of about 300 metres and runs from the foot of the Merkurgebirge south-southeast into the Murg valley. Forested slopes protect the vineyard site.
Soil and cultivation
The starting rock is given as Upper Rotliegend, which is associated with varying wine acidity. The training system used in Grossenberg promotes a site-specific microclimate. The vines are farmed organically with natural fertilisers and minerals, without synthetic herbicides or insecticides. According to the operator, permanent ground cover supports humus formation as well as the diversity of plants and animals.
Grape varieties and wines
For wines from Grossenberg, Riesling, Grauburgunder and Blauer Spätburgunder are documented. Dry and semi-dry Riesling are offered, semi-dry Grauburgunder, as well as dry or sweet Blauer Spätburgunder. In addition, a sparkling wine based on Riesling is listed.
Viticulture and cellar
According to the municipality, viticulture in Staufenberg became uneconomical in the 19th century; today wine is grown again at Staufenberger Grossenberg. Fully ripe grapes are hand-picked and brought to the cellar. Whole Riesling and Grauburgunder grapes are pressed, and white wines are fermented at a low temperature. Destemmed red must is fermented on the mash and matures for about two years in oak barrels.
