Location and size
Saukopf is a single vineyard spanning multiple municipalities in the wine-growing region Nahe. It lies within the cadastral areas of Waldlaubersheim and Windesheim. For the 2024 vintage, 6.6 hectares are recorded in Waldlaubersheim and 25.5 hectares in Windesheim.
Topography, soil and climate
The site is described as being predominantly level and with a slight slope towards the south. A further description mentions a south-facing position with around 80 percent hillside and 20 percent steep sites. The soils consist of deep loess with some gravel and a high proportion of lime. In the upper areas, loess-clay with additions of slate and clay are mentioned at elevations of about 220 to 280 metres above sea level.
For Windesheim, a mild climate, many hours of sunshine and around 500 millimetres of rainfall per year are given. The Guldenbachtal is considered to be protected from harsher conditions by the Soonwald.
Grape varieties and wine style
In Saukopf, Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), Riesling and Silvaner are planted. In addition, Weißburgunder and Chardonnay are indicated as wines from the Windesheimer Saukopf. The wines are described as full-bodied, with restrained, or respectively comparatively mild, acidity and early harmony. Their ageing potential is stated to be limited; they are intended for relatively early enjoyment.
Cultivation and vinification
For a Weißburgunder from the Windesheimer Saukopf, reduced vine pruning, the removal of double shoots, two mechanical and one manual leaf trimming, as well as a negative pre-selection are documented. The grapes are hand-harvested into small containers, left on the skins for twelve hours, and fermented and aged in stainless-steel tanks. A Chardonnay Reserve labelled as Windesheimer Saukopf matures in barrique.
