Location and Landscape
The Siegelsberg is a vineyard site in Erbach, a district of Eltville am Rhein in the Rheingau. The south-facing hillside lies at an altitude of around 100 metres and shows documented slopes of 10 to 30 percent. It is sheltered from wind and receives strong sunshine, which is associated with comparatively earlier flowering and ripening.
Soils and Grape Varieties
The soils comprise loam, or layers of loam, with a deep loess-loam subsoil. Loess and limestone are also documented, as well as tertiary marl and Taunus quartzite in the subsoil. The soil structure is associated with good water retention, water supply and lateral availability of water. Riesling is listed as the classified grape variety; in parts of the site, Spätburgunder is also grown.
Classification and Wine Style
The Siegelsberg is listed with the VDP as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® in Erbach. The classified area covers 8.65 hectares. Descriptions of the site link the wines with power, fine fruit, firm or ripe acidity, an elegant texture and good ageing potential.
History and Vinification
The vineyard site has been documented since 1270. Schloss Reinhartshausen connects the early mention with a sealed purchase contract, through which the vineyard was transferred from the Mainz monastery foundation of St. Peter. The origin of the name Siegelsberg is explained differently in regional accounts. For Rieslings from the Erbach Siegelsberg, strongly reduced yields, late harvest and selective hand-picking are documented. The ageing takes place in 300- or 600-litre wooden casks, with longer lees ageing.
