Location and classification
Stephansberg is a legally registered single vineyard site in the cadastral district of Merl in Zell (Moselle) in Germany. The site belongs to the Großlage Schwarze Katz, the area of Burg Cochem, and the wine-growing region Mosel. In the 2024 vineyard register, 22.8 hectares of vineyard area are recorded; the official vineyard number is 440415.
Topography and soil
Stephansberg is a steep hillside site oriented towards the south-southwest, with high levels of sunshine and late-afternoon sun. The medium-depth, stony soil was formed from weathered slate.
Grape varieties and wine styles
Riesling is documented as the grape variety for the site and is used to make wines with the designation Merler Stephansberg Riesling. Dry quality wines as well as Kabinett and Spätlese wines are evidenced. The descriptions of these Rieslings cite fruity or yellow-fruit aromas, a mineral character shaped by the slate, and a full or juicy mouthfeel.
Historical note and vinification
A historical classification reports that the Merl vineyards were classified as top sites in category 1 in 1897. For a documented Merler Stephansberg Riesling from the 2009 vintage, selective hand harvesting is stated at a yield of 60 hectolitres per hectare, careful processing, time on the skins, low-pressure pressing, temperature-controlled fermentation in a stainless-steel tank, and longer ageing on fine lees.
