Location and geography
Rothenberg is a registered single vineyard site in the cadastral area of Gau-Algesheim in the district of Bingen in Rheinhessen. The Großlage (collective vineyard site) is Abtey. The winegrowing site covers around 49 hectares and lies at an elevation of around 170 metres. It is described as south to south-easterly facing.
Soils and microclimate
Formed from loess are pararendzinas from deep, light-coloured loam with clayey silt, lime content, good water retention and good root penetration. In addition, rendzinas formed from limestone occur, which are linked to tertiary marine deposits from a limestone reef of calcifying algae. These soils are shallow to moderately deep, stony, sandy-loamy and contain a great deal of lime.
The south-easterly orientation allows early sunshine and reduces the impact of the hottest afternoon sun. The open, well-ventilated location makes it possible to leave thin-skinned Auxerrois grapes on the vine until they reach optimal ripeness.
Grape varieties and wine style
In Rothenberg, among others, Auxerrois, Weißburgunder and Grauburgunder are planted. The site is also documented as the origin of Grauburgunder and Frühburgunder wines. The loess and pararendzina areas are associated with yellow-fruited wines and notes of apple, peach, pear and citrus. They show a moderate structure, a mild acidity and are comparatively early ready to drink.
The limestone- and rendzina-influenced areas stand for expressive, mineral and chalky wines with citrus, apple and gooseberry aromas. As ripeness increases, notes of mango and passion fruit may also appear; the wines are described as having balanced acidity and potential for further development.
Name and wine law
The name Rothenberg refers to an old area that was cleared of forest. The designation is listed in the wine sites directory of Rhineland-Palatinate as an approved single-vineyard name for more specific geographical origin indications.
