Location and classification
Kirchlay is a registered single vineyard in the municipality and cadastral district of Kröv in the winegrowing region Mosel, Bernkastel area, within the Großlage Nacktarsch. The official wine-growing site number is 410603.
Extent and terrain
The site extends from the Bayersbach, bordering the Letterlay, as far as the Viehbach. According to the municipality’s description, Kirchlay covers 75 hectares; the official register lists 41.6 hectares of planted vineyard area for 2024. The vineyards range from the edge of the town of Kröv up to the forest boundary. The lower part is flatter, the upper part steeper.
Soils and climate
In the lower, flatter area there are stony, water-retentive clay soils. The upper, steeper area consists of slate weathering with a high proportion of clay. The water stored in the lower part supports vine growth in very dry and hot years.
Grape varieties and wine style
For Kirchlay, Riesling, Spätburgunder and Dornfelder are documented. The wines are described as delicate and piquant; in very dry and hot years they can be characterised by body and extract. Kirchlay Riesling is also suitable for making sparkling wine.
