Location and classification
Herrenberg is a vineyard site in Rech in the Ahr winegrowing region Ahr. The VDP-classified site covers 17.00 hectares and is classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE.
Topography and soils
The site, which faces south, lies below the rocky section of the Schwedenkopf and is about 130 to 230 metres above sea level. Its slopes have a gradient of 25 to 60 per cent, with an average of 45 per cent. The southern part is terraced and lies opposite the ruins of the Saffenburg.
According to the VDP description, the soils contain greywacke and clay as well as volcanic rock and slate. Further descriptions mention weathered greywacke and slate, as well as local proportions of loess and loess clay.
Vines and wine style
For Herrenberg, the VDP classifies Spätburgunder and Frühburgunder. In the broader designation Recher Herrenberg, Portugieser and Riesling are also mentioned. The site has many own-rooted vines; it is the only VDP.GROSSE LAGE around Rech that has never been parcel-restructured. It is associated with powerful Spätburgunder and fresh, acidity-emphasised Rieslings.
Name and history
The name Herrenberg refers to the lords or counts of Saffenburg, who previously owned Rech and the surrounding vineyards. Wilhelm von Saffenberg granted some vineyards in Recher Herrenberg to his relatives, the lords of Blankenheim.
