Location and Classification
The registered vineyard site Schloßberg is Erbacher Schloßberg, a single-vineyard (Einzellage) in the district of Erbach of Eltville am Rhein in the Rheingau. The site lies above Schloss Reinhartshausen and stretches westwards towards Hattenheim, where it borders Erbach’s Marcobrunn. As a Rheingau single-vineyard, it is assigned to the area, or the greater site (Großlage), Erbacher Honigberg.
Site and Soils
The approximately six-hectare Erbacher Schloßberg is oriented to the south. Up the slope, the Erbacher Siegelsberg and the edge of the town protect the site; towards the Rhine, rows of trees provide protection. The deep loess clay soils have a high capacity for storing water and supplying nutrients. In the 2.5-hectare core parcel, pure loess extends to a depth of about four metres; the vines there are around 60 years old. This parcel is, as a monopollage, in the sole ownership of Schloss Reinhartshausen.
Grape Varieties and Wine Style
The vineyard is planted exclusively with Riesling. Classic Rheingau Rieslings with fruity acidity are documented. The dry site wine from the core parcel is described as juicy and elegant, with a character of ripe stone fruit and fine minerality.
History and Vinification
The name Erbacher Schlossberg was introduced in 1972 in connection with the new German wine-law legislation. For Erbacher Schlossberg, hand-harvesting and selective grape picking, as well as gentle pressing and an extended ripening period before release, are documented.
