Location and classification
The Schloßberg is a single vineyard site in the municipality of Harxheim and comprises a documented vineyard area of 35 hectares. The wine-growing site belongs to Rheinhessen and lies at approximately 145 to 220 metres above sea level. Its southern aspect and slope gradients of up to 30 per cent shape the topography.
Climate and soils
The site is open and windswept, comparatively cool and at the same time characterised by strong sunlight exposure. As the most important mapped soil type, a Pararendzina is described, formed from calcareous wind-blown dust. The soil is deep, calcareous, well-suited for root penetration and can store plant-available water. A further description of the site mentions calcareous marl and loamy clay.
Name and grape varieties
The name of the site has been attested as early as 1673 as “auf dem Schloßberg” (“on the Schloßberg”). The regional wine-growing authority explains it as a reinterpretation of “Schuß/Schoß” and relates it to a steep site. In the Schloßberg, Riesling and Silvaner are documented; in addition, Chardonnay is associated with a Schloßberg wine from Harxheim.
Wine style and vinification
The regional description links wines from the Schloßberg with yellow-fruit and citrus notes, a rather slender structure, refreshing acidity and medium weight. At least one winery cultivates its plots there organically. For a documented Riesling, selective hand harvesting was carried out, spontaneous fermentation in stoneware vessels, an eight-month maturation on the full lees, and at least six months of bottle ageing.
