Location and Classification
Helenenkloster is a vineyard site at the eastern end of Mülheim an der Mosel on a prominent ridge above the Moselle valley between Monzel and Bernkastel-Kues. The roughly 0.8-hectare area is managed as a single vineyard site within the wine-growing region Mosel, Bernkastel area, Großlage Kurfürstlay.
Soil and Cultivation
The site, which faces southwest, is less steep than many other vineyards along the Moselle. Its soil consists of grey slate with fine-grained gravel and clay. The moderate slope angle allows cultivation with small vineyard tractors. Helenenkloster is documented as a monopoly of the Max Ferd. Richter winery.
Grape Varieties and Wine Styles
For the wines from Helenenkloster, Riesling is documented. These include Riesling Spätlese and Riesling Eiswein. The Riesling is described as powerful; the Spätlese shows cool aromatic character, citrus fruit, fresh hay and a juicy profile. According to the documentation, the vines and grapes remain healthy late into the season, which supports the regular production of Eiswein.
History
The oldest documented written record concerning the site dates from 30 April 1245. At that time, the Count of Veldenz granted the property to the nearby St.-Helenen-Kloster. The remains of the former monastery lie beneath today’s vineyard. The first Eiswein from Helenenkloster was produced in 1961.
