Location and orientation
The Wachtkopf is the Gündelbacher Wachtkopf in the Gündelbach district of Vaihingen an der Enz in the wine-growing region Württemberg. The vineyards are located predominantly on steep to very steep slopes oriented to the south. For a documented plot, a slope of 25 to 60 per cent is given. The south-facing orientation ensures high levels of sunlight.
Soils and cultivation
As documented rock and soil materials, Keuper weathering material and stubensandstone are listed. A further description mentions Bunter marl with loamy clay. An area of 2.0 hectares is cultivated with a narrow-gauge tractor and a compact tracked vehicle.
Grape varieties and wine styles
At the Wachtkopf, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Trollinger and Lemberger are documented. From this, both white wines are produced from Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, and red wines from Trollinger and Lemberger. A Sauvignon Blanc from the 2023 vintage from the Sonnenhof winery was aged in a 500-litre wooden barrel.
Historical and legal context
The holdings associated with the Wachtkopf of the Gündelbacher Steinbachhof were acquired by Duchess Anna Katharina of Württemberg in 1649. In 1757 they were transferred to the chamber chancellery; at the sale of the estate in 1974, the vineyard areas remained with the holdings. The Wachtkopf is documented as a vineyard site in Württemberg. The designation Steillage is reserved under German wine law for wines that come exclusively from plots with at least 30 per cent slope inclination.
