Location and classification
The Liebesbrunnen is a named vineyard site near Hochstätten in the winegrowing region Nahe in Germany. In the official directory of vineyard sites of Rhineland-Palatinate, the site is listed under Hochstätten as of the 2024 harvest.
Topography and soils
The south-facing steep slope has gradients of up to 20 percent. The soils are described as red slate, loess loam and sandy mixtures with a stone content of up to 20 percent. For a documented Pinot Blanc from the Hochstätter Liebesbrunnen, the soil is stated as predominantly red sandstone, also known as Rotliegendes; the hillside is thereby linked to earlier volcanic activity.
Grape varieties and wines
Under the name Hochstätter Liebesbrunnen, wines made from Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Rotberger and Bacchus are documented. These include dry Pinot Blanc, dry Pinot Gris and a finely off-dry rosé made from Rotberger. The documented Pinot Blanc from the 2020 vintage was matured in stainless steel tanks.
Viticulture and history
For the vineyards associated with the Hochstätter Liebesbrunnen, organic cultivation is documented, in which chemically synthetic plant protection products and fertilisers are omitted. Viticulture in the site has been documented for more than 150 years; according to the winery’s own information, the estate of Otto Laubenstein vinifies grapes in Hochstätten since 1860. A local historical presentation mentions rules for viticulture in the Hochstätter Weistum from 1543 and documents the Hochstätter Liebesbrunnen in the 20th century as a source of wine for a winemakers’ cooperative.
