Location and classification
Hähnchen is a single vineyard site in the municipality of Bornheim. It belongs to the Großlage Adelberg in the Bingen area of the winegrowing region Rheinhessen. The vineyard plots are located at elevations of 162 to 272 metres and are oriented from northeast to northwest.
Soils and vineyard area
The site comprises loess–pararendzina from calcareous aeolian deposits, as well as volcanic rock and brown soils from dark Rotliegend lava. The loess soils are deep, calcareous and rich in nutrients; they store a great deal of plant-available water and allow good root penetration. The shallow, very stony volcanic rock and brown soils are well drained, absorb heat well, but store less water and limit root penetration. The wine-growing sites directory 2024 lists 59.1 hectares of planted vineyard area; a regional profile gives 62 hectares.
Grape varieties and wine style
In Hähnchen, Burgundian varieties are grown, including Grauburgunder and Spätburgunder. The loess–pararendzina is associated with yellow-fruit notes and aromas of apple, peach, pear and citrus, moderate structure and fresh acidity. The volcanic rock and brown soil profiles stand for a mineral character, peach, apple and citrus fruit, balanced acidity, structure and ageing potential.
Name and history
The name Hähnchen is traced locally back to the Old High German word hagan, meaning an enclosed area. Historically, the area was covered with bushes or hedges. Archaeological finds include two millstones made of basalt lava, settlement sites and lime render made of clay from prehistoric settlement.
