Location and landscape
The Mainleite lies on the River Main between the eastern edge of Schweinfurt and Mainberg, a district of Schonungen in the Schweinfurt district. It follows a distinct bend of the river in which the Main turns south. The south-facing slope, around 2.7 kilometres long and up to 200 metres wide, between the Main and Hainberg is steeply developed.
Soil and climate
The hillside consists mainly of Upper Muschelkalk. On the lower Mainleite, Trochitenkalk and the Meißner Formation are found, while in the upper part there is Upper Muschelkalk 3; above that follow layers of the Lower Keuper. The mild, warm and dry local climate makes viticulture possible on the steep slopes.
Wine-growing history
Viticulture on the Mainleite has been documented since the early 14th century. In 1323, vineyards “an der Meyenleyten” were mentioned, and in 1338 three vineyard parcels on the Mainleite were sold. Historically, the southern and south-eastern slopes were largely covered with vines; viticulture there continued until about the middle of the 20th century. Terraces, retaining walls and staircases shaped cultivation, with the staircases also serving, in part, to convey water.
Designation and protection
In the Bavarian vineyard directory, Schweinfurt–Mainleite and Schonungen–Mainberg–Mainleite are listed as individual sites without a designation for a larger grouping in the Franconian wine-growing region Franken. Since 1956, the Mainleite has been protected as a landscape conservation area. The protection ordinance limits interventions that would change the landscape, but allows for economic use and maintenance measures, provided these do not contradict the purpose of protection.
