Location and Topography
Leidhecke is a single vineyard within the Großlage of Sankt Alban in the Nierstein area. It lies within the municipal territory of Bodenheim in Rheinhessen and covers 54 hectares. The altitude ranges from 100 to 140 metres above sea level; the exposure runs from north-east to north.
Soils
Mergel-Pararendzina with calcareous loams and sands from tertiary marine deposits, as well as Mergel-Pelosol from calcareous, clayey deposits of the Tertiary sea, are documented. The deep mergel soils feature swell-capable clay, limited water and air permeability, as well as a high content of nutrients and lime.
Grape Varieties and Wine Styles
For the Bodenheim Leidhecke, among other varieties, Spätburgunder is documented on lighter, comparatively sandy soils, as well as Riesling, Silvaner, Kerner and Burgundian varieties on the southern slopes of Bodenheim with shares of the Leidhecke. The Mergel-Pararendzina is associated with full-bodied wines and balanced acidity; described are aromas of exotic fruits, mango, honeydew melon and apricot, and in red wines dark fruit and smoky spice. Mergel-Pelosol is associated with dense, full-bodied wines, moderate acidity and a creamy texture, as well as mango, apricot and honeydew melon.
Historical Names
The site is documented in 1401 as “under der leydenhecken”. Other preserved forms are “in der Leydt Heck” from 1656, as well as “auf/an der Leidhecke” from 1742.
