Site and Classification
Pechstein is a wine-growing site in Forst in the growing region Pfalz in Germany. The VDP classifies it as VDP.GROSSE LAGE®. As a classified grape variety, Riesling is specified.
Aspect and Climate
The site lies at around 120 to 150 metres above sea level and has a slight slope of roughly 6 to 10 per cent. It is orientated towards the south-east and rises towards the edge of the forest. The high amount of sunshine contributes to warming up the soil and to high ripeness of the grapes.
Soil and Wine Style
The soil contains basalt rubble and basalt veins, as well as weathered bunter sandstone, sandy loam and clay-rich material. The proportion of loam and clay ensures a high water-retention capacity. The basalt is connected to the extinct volcanic Pechsteinkopf above Forst; in the 19th century, basalt rubble from a nearby quarry was also added to the vineyards to improve the soil. The Rieslings from Pechstein are described as mineral, finely textured, slender and long-lasting, with aromas of citrus fruits and flint.
