Location and Classification
Kirchberg is a registered vineyard site in the Castell district of Greuth in the wine-growing region Franken. In the VDP site information, the site is also referred to as Casteller Kirchberg.
Topography and Soils
The classified VDP section is oriented towards the south-west, lies at an altitude of about 320 metres, and has a slope gradient of approximately 30 per cent. The subsoil consists of Keuper gypsum, which the VDP describes as Triassic gypsum marl with interbedded Benker sandstones.
Area and Viticulture
The vineyard directory lists Kirchberg with 17 hectares in the cadastral areas of Castell and Greuth. The classified section Casteller Kirchberg is designated for Silvaner and Weißburgunder. The local microclimate on the southern and western slopes, as well as the foothills of the Steigerwald, and the Keuper gypsum soils are associated with wines of different characteristics.
History and Wine Legislation
Viticulture on the Greuther Berg and in the historic vineyards of Castell has been documented since 1266 by a vintner from Greuth. Kirchberg in Castell-Greuth is listed in the Bavarian vineyard directory as a site without an overarching Grand Site designation; certain parcels of Kirchberg in Castell are assigned there to the Grand Site Abtswinder Schild.
