Location and classification
The Wildsau is the single vineyard of Martinsthaler Wildsau in Martinsthal, a district of Eltville am Rhein in the Rheingau. It lies below the edge of the forest and, according to the legally defined boundaries from 1971, extends as far as the Roder Kapelle.
Relief and soils
The original site comprises slopes and steep slopes oriented to the south. It lies at around 220 metres above sea level and has a gradient of 35 to 50 per cent. The soils are described as loess loam over phyllite, as well as stony, clayey loam from weathered phyllite containing loess and loess loam components; towards the edge of the forest there is gravel. The deciduous forest above the vineyards acts as a water reservoir for the soils.
Area and grape varieties
The classified area covers 30.00 hectares. The classified grape varieties listed are Riesling and Spätburgunder. The site is designated as VDP.ERSTE LAGE®.
Name and wine style
The name goes back to the local expression “Wild’s Aue”, which referred to an area in which game, in particular wild boar, emerged from the adjoining forest. From this, the name “Wildsau” later developed. Rieslings from the site are described as cool, fine and elegant, with a firm finish, as well as early-ripening, fruit-focused, harmoniously elegant and with restrained mineral acidity.
