Location and legal classification
Renchtäler is an officially recognised single-vineyard in the Ortenau wine-growing region in Baden. The legal classification includes Bottenau, Erlach, Lautenbach, Nesselried, Nußbach, Oberkirch, Ödsbach and Ulm. Erlach and Ulm are assigned directly to Renchen, Nesselried to Appenweier, and Lautenbach and Oberkirch directly. Renchtäler belongs to the larger vineyard Fürsteneck.
Soils and history
As terroir, weathered granite soils, or granite weathering rock, are described. In 1607, on the site of Fürsteneck and Ullenburg, 10,000 vines were planted with the aim of developing a centre for Renchtäler wine-growing.
Grape varieties and wine styles
Renchtaler wines are associated with Grauburgunder (Pinot gris), Weißburgunder (Pinot blanc), Müller-Thurgau, Riesling and Spätburgunder (Pinot noir). Documented offerings include Riesling, red Spätburgunder, Grauburgunder, Müller-Thurgau, Weißherbst and rosé sparkling wine.
Cultivation
Historical records describe small terraces on slopes with more than about 40 to 45 percent gradient, as well as the use of mechanical drive following the land consolidation (Flurbereinigung). In addition, advice was given on site-appropriate planting and a flexible harvest time in order to meet quality standards.
