Location and landscape
The Kirchenstück is a single vineyard site in Mainz-Hechtsheim. It lies in the area of Nierstein and forms part of the Großlage of Sankt Alban in Rheinhessen. The vineyard site is surrounded by development in Hechtsheim and offers views of the hills of Rheinhessen, the Rhine, Mainz Cathedral and the Taunus.
Soil and aspect
The south-west-facing hillside rises from the old edge of Hechtsheim up to the Laubenheimer and Hechtsheimer Höhen. The soil consists of loess and colluvium; the humus-rich topsoil has a very good root penetration.
Grape varieties and wine style
Traditionally, Silvaner and Riesling are grown. More recently, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder, Chardonnay and some red grape varieties have been added. The wines are associated with well-integrated acidity, yellow-fruited aromas of apple, pear and peach, and chalky or smoky notes. With sufficient ripeness, they initially present themselves as restrained, linear and medium-bodied.
Name and classification
The name Kirchenstück has been documented for more than 800 years and refers to an old church estate. In the official wine site classification, the Kirchenstück is listed as a single vineyard site within the Großlage of Sankt Alban in the Nierstein area.
