Location and aspect
RAUSCH is a VDP.GROSSE LAGE® in Saarburg in the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer winegrowing region (Mosel). The classified site lies on the central slope below the wooded outcrop of the single vineyard Rausch, close to the historic field name “Franzens Knüppchen”, and turns slightly into a side valley of the Saar. It faces south to south-east, is sheltered from the wind and is exposed to the sun all day.
Topography and soil
The site is at around 160 to 295 metres above sea level and has slope inclines of approximately 35 to 75 per cent. The stony subsoil is characterised by greywacke, soft, thin-slab Devonian slate and reddish fine earth. In addition, diabase occurs due to a volcanic rock intrusion. The VDP-classified area comprises 22.70 hectares.
Grape varieties and wine styles
Riesling is stated as the classified grape variety. Documented wines from RAUSCH include dry and gently off-dry Riesling, as well as fruity Kabinett and sweet Spätlese.
Cultivation and name
For documented Rausch Rieslings by Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken, the grapes come from their own cultivation and are picked entirely by hand. Vinification is carried out completely in neutral Fuder barrels. The name is derived from the historic dialect terms “Steinrausch” or “Rusche” for gravel, or a gravel hillside.
