Location and Classification
Sonnenmorgen is a registered single vineyard site in Windesheim on the Nahe in Germany. The official vineyard directory lists the site with 20.2 hectares and the site code 510362.
Topography and Climate
The almost level, south-facing site lies between about 170 and 250 metres above sea level. For Windesheim, a mild climate, many hours of sunshine and comparatively low rainfall are described. The surrounding Soonwald and Hunsrück protect the area from harsher weather.
Soils and Vines
The soils are described as calcareous, deep terrace gravel with a loess covering, as well as loess marl with gravel components. In individual plots, stones, slate or phyllite also occur; some areas are considered very stony and have a low capacity to store water. In Sonnenmorgen, Riesling and Weißburgunder (Pinot blanc) grow, with Riesling predominating in some plots. For establishing a vineyard, a vine age of around 40 years is given.
Wine Style and Maturation
Rieslings from Sonnenmorgen are associated with expressive, lively wines and frequent notes of tropical fruit. Weißburgunder and other white Burgundies are described as dense, concentrated or complex, with ripe yellow fruit aromas. A wine from Windesheimer Sonnenmorgen is designated as a site wine. For a Sonnenmorgen Weißburgunder, 6 to 12 hours of maceration on the skins, gentle pressing, partial fermentation in stainless steel and partly in barrique, as well as at least six months on the full lees are documented.
