Location and classification
Hundertgulden is a single vineyard in the municipality of Appenheim in the Bingen area of Rheinhessen. It lies east of the town on the slopes of the Westerberg and belongs to the Großlage Abtey.
Topography and climate
The south-west to south-facing site is located at about 160 to 235 metres above sea level. The steep southern core reaches a gradient of up to 38 to 40 percent. Cool westerly winds and the warm exposure are associated with a long growing season. The slope location also allows cold air to drain towards the town, which is intended to reduce the risk of frost for young shoots.
Soil and grape variety
The geological subsoil consists of Tertiary limestone with limestone and clay marl overlays. The limestone was formed from carbonate deposits of a former coral-algae reef in the Tertiary Sea. Recorded are shallow to medium-depth, very calcareous and stony sandy loams over Kalkstein rendzina, as well as medium to deep, stony clay soils as Terra fusca from clay marl. Riesling is the classified and most important grape variety of the site.
Wine character and history
Rieslings from Hundertgulden are described as having fine fruit, pronounced minerality, balanced acidity and a chalky character shaped by limestone. In younger wines, the spectrum of aromas ranges from citrus fruit, apple and gooseberry to mango, passion fruit, apricot and smoky notes as the wine ripens further. The site has been documented since a donation to the Disibodenberg monastery in 1148. Its current name is probably derived from the 14th century, when the land changed hands several times for large sums in Rhineland gold guilder. The VDP classifies Hundertgulden as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® with Riesling.
