Location and landscape
The Schloßberg, also known as the Winkeler Schlossberg, lies as a vineyard directly below Schloss Vollrads in the Winkel district of Oestrich-Winkel in the Rheingau. The south-facing, gently rising hillside is situated at between 110 and 140 metres above sea level and has a gradient of 10 to 30 per cent.
Climate and soils
The vineyard benefits from the mild influence of the Rhine, while the Taunus provides protection from northern winds. Sandier loam and Taunus quartzite are described, as well as deep, rich loess, gravel and loess-loam with a high proportion of clay, which supports water retention.
Varietal and categorisation
The classified VDP site comprises 13 hectares. The Schloßberg is classified as a VDP.GROSSE LAGE for Riesling. For the wine landscape of Schloss Vollrads, to which the southern Schloßberg belongs, wine trading has been documented since 1211; as a separate winery, it was expanded increasingly from the 17th century onwards.
Wine style and vinification
Wines from the Winkeler Schlossberg are described as full-bodied and elegant, with pronounced acidity and potential for ageing. The parcels of Schloss Vollrads are planted with old vines whose deep-reaching roots are associated with low yields and extensive manual work. The Schloßberg Grosses Gewächs is a dry Riesling with a dense body and firm structure. After two to three days of cold maceration, spontaneous fermentation follows, with ageing and vinification for up to eight months in 1,200-litre small barrels.
