Location and landscape
The Höllberg is a single-vineyard site north of Siefersheim in the winegrowing region of Rheinhessen. In the regional breakdown, it belongs to the sub-region of Bingen and the large site of Rheingrafenstein. The vineyards are on a wooded slope and border the Appelbach. The Siefersheimer Horn protects the site from westerly winds.
Relief and soils
The south-easterly to south-south-easterly facing site lies at around 150 to 220 metres above sea level. The slope gradient is, depending on the section, 20 to 50 percent; regionally, descriptions sometimes mention up to 30 percent. The subsoil consists of rhyolite, a volcanic rock. On top of this there are shallow to moderately deep, stony-sandy loam Rigosols with medium available water storage, good aeration, low nutrient supply, an acidic reaction, good heat-retention and medium rooting depth.
Grape varieties and wine style
For the classified site, the VDP specifies Riesling. The regional portal lists Riesling and Silvaner as cultivated grape varieties. The wines are described with mineral, stony, smoky and flinty notes, as well as apple, peach and citrus. This is complemented by lively freshness and pronounced acidity.
Classification and history
The VDP lists the Höllberg as VDP.GROSSE LAGE®. The classified area is given as 7.32 hectares; for the vineyard as a whole, 29 hectares are listed. As early as 1532, the site is documented under the name in the Hellen. The name is explained as a reference to a gentle slope and as a common field name in West Middle Germany.
