Location and classification
The Oberschwappacher Sommertal lies in Oberschwappach, a district of Knetzgau in Bavaria. The wine-growing area extends in the direction of Eschenau and is part of the Großlage Zeiler Kapellenberg in the wine-growing region Franconia.
Terroir and cultivation
The site, which is oriented towards the south-southwest, has Gipskeuper as its subsoil. To protect against erosion, cover crops are used or the vines are covered with straw.
Area and grape varieties
For the Sommertal, 15.58 hectares are cited in a regional site description and around 21 hectares for the year 2021 in a further compilation. Documented grape varieties include, among others, Müller-Thurgau, Bacchus, Grüner Silvaner, Scheurebe, Weißer Burgunder, Regent, Domina, Blauer Silvaner, Blauer Spätburgunder, Dornfelder, Cabernet Dorsa and Müllerrebe, or Schwarzriesling. The most important varieties are described as Müller-Thurgau and Bacchus.
Historical background
As early as the 13th century, vineyards belonging to the Ebrach monastery were documented at this site. Later, a summer residence of the Cistercian monastery was established there. The name of the vineyard site goes back to the historical field names Eichelberg and Sommertal.
