Location and classification
Rosenberg is an official vineyard site in Sommerach in the Franken wine-growing region. The site is located on the wine island along the Main River loop near Sommerach. In the official Bavarian vineyard classification, Sommerach–Rosenberg is listed as a single site (Einzellage) within the larger site (Großlage) of Kirchberg; specific parcels, including the Leitersberg area, are assigned to the larger site of Engelsberg.
Topography and soils
According to the description of a local producer, the Sommerach Rosenberg rises behind the viewpoint tower in Sommerach; the vineyard plots are situated on the Rosenberg plateau. The altitude and proximity to the Main shape a microclimate. The site is described as a shell limestone (Muschelkalk) formation with a substantial layer of sand.
Varieties and wines
On the Rosenberg plateau, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Silvaner are documented. Other documented Rosenberg wines include Grauburgunder and Weißburgunder. These include dry cuvée “Kabinett” wines (Kabinett) made from Grauburgunder and Weißburgunder, as well as dry Sauvignon Blanc, which the producer classifies as an “Erste Lage”, and dry Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cultivation
The Sommerach irrigation association has existed since 1957. In municipal records, the Rosenberg area is named as a target for the expansion and modernisation of vineyard irrigation. The documented Rosenberg Sauvignon Blanc and the Rosenberg Cabernet Sauvignon from Weingut Daniel Then are produced from certified organic grapes. For wines of higher categories, the winery documents a late harvest and extended ageing; the dry Rosenberg Cabernet Sauvignon is assigned to the “Große-Lage” range.
