Location and Region
Ratsherr is a vineyard site in the wine-growing region Franconia on the Main loop near Volkach. The site extends between Volkach and Fahr; the Bavarian directory of vineyard sites also lists it under the cadastral districts of Gaibach and Obervolkach.
Climate and Terrain
The area has comparatively low rainfall, to which, according to the VDP description, the shielding of clouds by the nearby Spessart contributes. The narrow valley and the proximity to the Main create a sheltered, warm microclimate. The classified plots lie at about 200 metres above sea level, are oriented to the south and have gradients of up to 60 per cent.
Soil and Classification
The soils consist of shell limestone and Keuper marl with a thin, lean loamy top layer. The larger wine-growing area Ratsherr was created in 1971 by combining several smaller sites in the cadastral districts of Volkach and Fahr. Ratsherr is classified as a VDP.GROSSE LAGE; the classified area covers 4.49 hectares. For the site, the VDP classification applies to Silvaner, Riesling and Spätburgunder.
Documented Wine and Name
A documented Ratsherr Silvaner from the Zur Schwane winery is made as a VDP.GROSSES GEWÄCHS. The grapes are harvested by hand and selected; old Silvaner vines with low yields are used. The wine ferments spontaneously, matures on the lees in traditional small casks made of Spessart oak and is then bottled. The designation Ratsherr is linked to a legend from the Thirty Years’ War about the Swedish siege of Volkach and a drinking contest with a Ratsherr.
