Location and Geography
The Mandelberg is an officially designated wine-growing site in the municipality of Kirrweiler in the wine region of Pfalz. The Kirrweiler Mandelberg lies on the south side of a ridge running from west to east, which is locally referred to as a Riedel, at around 120 to 150 metres above sea level.
Climate and Soils
Direct, long-lasting sunshine ensures high temperatures during the day. Cool winds lower the temperatures of the vines and berries at night. The subsoil consists of wind-deposited, calcareous loess over sand or loam; in addition, loess, parabrrown soil and sand, as well as heavy, clay-rich soils, are also described.
Grape Varieties and Classification
Riesling, Weißburgunder, Müller-Thurgau and Scheurebe are documented for the Mandelberg. The Mandelberg section “Am Speyrer Weg” is classified by the VDP for Riesling and Weißburgunder, covers 7.08 hectares and is farmed by Bergdolt–Klostergut St. Lamprecht. The VDP lists this section as VDP.GROSSE LAGE®.
Wine Style and History
Wines from the Kirrweiler Mandelberg are described as elegant, harmonious and finely structured Burgundian-style wines with a juicy, lingering finish. The Mandelberg Rieslings are regarded as fine-fruited, clearly mineral and shaped by crisp acidity, with development potential and long ageing suitability. A documented Weißburgunder was vinified as a dry site wine. According to the winery, the site has been included in the Eichelmann wine guide’s classic wine-growing-site reporting since 2003.
