Location in the Schneckental
Oberdürrenberg is a designated single vineyard in Pfaffenweiler in Baden. The vineyard lies to the east of the village on the eastern side of the Schneckental valley, and is thus opposite the Batzenberg on its west side. Oberdürrenberg and Batzenberg are the two designated Pfaffenweiler vineyards.
Climate and soils
The Schneckental is described as a basin in which warmth collects. Cooling at night by cold winds from the Black Forest is limited there. The soils of Oberdürrenberg are characterised as reddish limestone soils; for the vineyards of the classic line, the producer also cites loam-loess soils.
Viticulture and vinification
The parcels of the classic line at Oberdürrenberg are rated together with those at Batzenberg as vineyards of medium to good quality. The documented quality measures by the Pfaffenweiler winery include reducing yields as well as a late, selective hand-harvest in three passes.
Wine style and grape varieties
The wines from the classic vineyards are described as structured and with a pronounced varietal character. From Oberdürrenberg and Batzenberg, wines are produced including those from Gutedel, Müller-Thurgau, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscatel, Scheurebe, Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris), Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and Merlot. The wines are aged in stainless steel tanks or traditional wooden barrels, with the aim of preserving the varietal character.
