Location and Landscape
Hochwart is a vineyard designation on the island of Reichenau in Lake Constance and belongs to the wine-growing region of Baden. With around 441 metres above sea level, Hochwart is the highest point on the island. Vineyards are located around the hill as well as on the slopes falling down towards the lake.
Climate and Grape Varieties
The Lake Constance climate brings plenty of sunshine during the growing season. The lake reflects light and warmth, reduces temperature fluctuations and helps limit spring and autumn frosts. For Hochwart wines, Müller-Thurgau, Kerner, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder, Gutedel, Chardonnay, Spätburgunder and Cabernet Mitos have been documented.
Wine Styles
The range includes dry white wines, dry and fine-herbaceous Spätburgunder, rosé and Weißherbst wines, Blanc de Noir as well as sparkling wine. The Hochwart Weißburgunder is described as dry with restrained acidity and yellow-fruit and floral notes. The dry Hochwart Spätburgunder shows berry and cherry aromas, fine tannins and a medium to dark ruby-red colour.
Maturation and History
For the Hochwart Pinot Noir Blanc de Noir, yield-reducing cultivation, selective harvesting, a short maceration time, cool fermentation and maturation in stainless-steel tanks are documented. The Hochwart Spätburgunder Barrique is made from strongly yield-reduced grapes harvested selectively, is fermented on the skins and matured for 18 months in barrique, followed by further development on fine lees. The Hochwart cuvée is produced using traditional bottle fermentation. The first vines on Reichenau are dated to the year 818; the Reichenau Winegrowers’ Association has existed since 1894.
