Location and classification
The Maximiner Klosterlay in Detzem is a legally defined single vineyard in the winegrowing region Mosel, the Bernkastel area, Großlage Sankt Michael. In the official register of winegrowing sites, it is listed under winegrowing site number 410819. The vineyard area within the municipal and cadastral area of Detzem covers 40.6 hectares.
Topography and soils
The site is predominantly very steep and oriented to the west as far as south-west. Its stony grey slate soils partly contain quartzite and, locally, small inclusions of iron oxides; blue slate is also characteristic. Below the vineyards, the Mosel reservoir contributes to a mild mesoclimate together with the heat-storing properties of the slate. Underground watercourses at the foot of the slope support water availability there.
Cultivation and grape varieties
Because of the steep and extremely steep slopes, the site of around 41 hectares is cultivated predominantly by hand. Almost the entire planting is given over to Riesling, especially in the old vines.
Wine character and naming history
The wines show fruit and spice, a pronounced acidity and a clear character specific to the site. The Rieslings are described as powerful and full-bodied, with a fine fragrance and elegance. The name refers to the Benedictine abbey of St. Maximin in Trier, which owned vineyards in the site during the Middle Ages. During the secularisation under Napoleon, these holdings were sold.
