Location and Geography
The Langenberg is the legally registered vineyard site Martinsthaler Langenberg in Martinsthal, a district of Eltville am Rhein in the Rheingau. The site lies above the town on the Martinsthaler Berg. Its name refers to the elongated shape of the vineyard or hill.
Slope and Soils
The steep slope, which is oriented to the south-west to south, lies at around 185 metres above sea level and has a gradient of 30 to 40 per cent. The orientation provides strong exposure to the sun, while the deep soils store water well. They consist of nutrient-rich slate; in the west there are soils formed from slate weathering, while to the east the influence of loess and loess loam increases.
Grape Variety and Wine Style
For the VDP-classified site of 3.86 hectares and in the regional vineyard sites list, Riesling is recorded as the grape variety. Documented wine styles range from dry wines to naturally sweet Prädikatsweins such as Spätlese, Auslese and Beerenauslese. Descriptions of the Rieslings mention fruit-driven aromas, mineral or spicy notes, a lively acidity and potential for ageing.
Classification and Production
The Langenberg is classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® . This private VDP classification does not replace the legally defined vineyard sites register. For a documented Riesling as a Grosses Gewächs, selective hand harvesting is specified, a short maceration time, gentle pressing and natural clarification. Controlled fermentation takes place partly in large wooden barrels and partly in stainless-steel tanks.
