Location and classification
Kätzchen is a legally registered single-vineyard site in the Mosel wine-growing region, in the Bernkastel area and the Großlage Kurfürstlay. The vineyard site with register number 410328 is assigned to the Monzel and Osann cadastral areas in the municipality of Osann-Monzel. The 2024 vineyard register lists 72.6 hectares in Monzel and 3.6 hectares in Osann.
Topography and soils
The site runs as a steep, south-facing slope towards the Mosel. A classified mid-section lies at around 160 to 200 metres above the Kestener Paulinshofberg and continues directly from the Brauneberger Juffer. Kätzchen is characterised predominantly by grey slate; in the classified plots, finely grained, stony soils are also described.
Climate and wine
The south-exposed steep slope warms up early in the year. The grey slate stores the day’s heat and releases it again at night, creating a warm local microclimate. In the classified mid-plots and in commercial wines from Kätzchen, old vines have been documented, including vine stocks with an age of over 50 years.
As the classified variety for the VDP.GROSSE-LAGE section, Riesling is stated. Documented wines from Kätzchen include dry Riesling as VDP.GROSSES GEWÄCHS, fine, medium-sweet Riesling and sweet Riesling as Spätlese.
Designation
The name Kätzchen is explained by the early appearance of pussy willows in spring.
