Location and classification
The Ölberg, also the Königsbacher Ölberg, is located in the Königsbach district of Neustadt an der Weinstraße in the Pfalz. VDP classifies the wine-growing site as VDP.ERSTE LAGE® for Riesling and Spätburgunder. The classified area covers 25.64 hectares.
Relief and soils
The vineyards are situated at approximately 130 to 190 metres above sea level and have slopes of around 3 to 15 percent. The documented soils consist of sandy loam, loamy sand and calcareous marl; in the topsoil, sand-stone components are also described.
Aspect and viticulture
The site, which faces south-east, receives early morning sun. The adjacent forest provides shade in the afternoon, while air currents from the valley contribute to night-time cooling. For two Ölberg plots, vines with an age of more than 35 years and yields of under 45 hectolitres per hectare are documented.
Wine styles and vinification
A documented Riesling from the Ölberg is dry and is described as having citrus, peach and honey notes, as well as a fresh, lively and elegant profile. The documented Spätburgunder is a dry red wine with fine, elegant fruit, fresh acidity, a powerful body and ageing potential. For an Ölberg Riesling, three hand-harvesting passes, additional hand picking, gentle pressing, spontaneous fermentation and partial ageing in Pfälzer wooden casks and in stainless steel are documented. The wine also matures for a long time on the lees and receives only a small amount of sulphur at the end.
