Location and classification
Ruthe is a vineyard site in Schwaigern in the German wine-growing region Württemberg. It is classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® and legally delimited as the single site EL Ruthe in Schwaigern.
Climate and topography
The partially terraced hillside, facing south, has a slope of 20 to 40 percent and lies at an altitude of about 246 to 307 metres. The Siegelsberg located above it protects against cold winds from the north and west. The high levels of sunshine favour an early flowering and a long ripening period.
Soils and grape varieties
The soils consist of Keuper, specifically gypsum Keuper with inclusions of coloured marl in the upper area. For Ruthe, Riesling, Lemberger and Spätburgunder are classified; Riesling and Lemberger predominate in the plantings.
History and wine style
Ruthe was first mentioned in 1385. The name refers to the clearing of the slope together with the Schlossberg. The wines Ruthe Riesling, Lemberger and Spätburgunder are documented as dry German Qualitätsweine.
