Location and Geography
The Würzburger Pfaffenberg is located in Würzburg Unterdürrbach, opposite the north-facing slope of the Würzburger Stein, beyond the Dürrbachtal valley. The gently curving site stretches downstream between Würzburg and Veitshöchheim. It is oriented to the south to southwest, lies at about 200 to 290 metres above sea level, and has a slope of 20 to 45 percent.
Climate and Soils
The sheltered south-west slope receives warmth from the afternoon and evening sun. The soil consists of skeletal-rich middle Muschelkalk and ranges from loamy to sandy loam.
Classification and Grape Varieties
The Würzburger Pfaffenberg is designated as a classified area of 43 hectares. Juliusspital Würzburg and Bürgerspital zum Heiligen Geist cultivate vineyard plots there. The classified grape varieties listed are Silvaner, Riesling, Grauburgunder, Weißburgunder, Chardonnay and Spätburgunder. The designation VDP.ERSTE LAGE is a classification by the Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter and is not a statutory German origin category.
Wine Style and Vinification
The wines from the Pfaffenberg are described as having fine herb aromas, along with a slightly saline and elegant profile. For a Pfaffenberg Silvaner, Bürgerspital documents a plot planted in 1971 with old vines, a long maceration time, spontaneous fermentation in wooden barrels, and maturation on the fine lees in wooden barrels. Juliusspital describes for its Pfaffenberg Silvaner gentle pressing, slow cool fermentation at 16 to 18 °C, and the subsequent maturation on the fine lees in stainless steel. Limited yields, soil care and the preservation of an intact ecosystem are also documented there.
