Location and classification
The Höllenberg is a formally recorded wine-growing site in the district of Heidesheim am Rhein. It belongs to the Bingen area and to the Kaiserpfalz region in Rheinhessen.
Topography
The wine-growing site covers 7 hectares, lies at an elevation of 101 to 210 metres, and is oriented towards the north-west.
Soils
A documented soil type is a shallow to moderately deep, very lime-rich and stony Rendzina from tertiary marine deposits with lime-rich algal reefs. The sandy loam has low available water storage, good aeration and good heat-retaining capacity. In addition, sand-Rigosol occurs, consisting of lime-containing dust and sand deposited during the Ice Ages. This soil is deep, well-aerated and offers good conditions for rooting, with medium water storage and a medium to good heat-retaining capacity.
Wine character and name
On the Rendzina, wines are produced with balanced acidity and mineralic-lime-like characteristics. Their aromas range from citrus fruit, apple and gooseberry to mango and passion fruit as ripeness increases. On the sand-Rigosol, red wines are more often described than white wines, characterised by pronounced fruit, dense structure and soft acidity; they are approachable when young and benefit from further ripening. “Hölle” refers to a slight slope and is a widespread element in local field-name terminology in West Central Germany.
