Location and Landscape
Würzgarten is a vineyard site in Ürzig on the Mosel, opposite Erden. The very steep amphitheatre, facing south to south-east, rises from around 110 to 220 metres above sea level. According to the VDP, the slope gradient is between 20 and 80 percent; in most parcels, 40 percent to over 70 percent are recorded.
Climate and Soils
The steep slopes of Ürzig and Erden have a full south-facing exposure. Annual rainfall generally lies below 700 millimetres. Cold-air drainage from the Eifel contributes to comparatively mild autumn and winter conditions. The soils consist of red volcanic rock and slate with a high proportion of stones. Particularly in the upper slope areas, iron-rich rhyolite occurs; the soil layer is deeper than in the adjacent Erden vineyards.
Vines and Wine Style
The VDP-classified grape variety is Riesling. On the steep slopes, the vines are trained using the single stake system. Würzgarten Rieslings are described as having clear structure, lively acidity and a piquant character; individual wines also show juicy or exotic fruit. Both dry Große Gewächse and select sweet wines are documented from Würzgarten.
Classification and Name
WÜRZGARTEN, Ürzig is listed with the VDP as a VDP.GROSSE LAGE with a classified area of 55 hectares. In the official documentation, the single vineyard is assigned to the Großlage Schwarzlay. Historically, the name is linked to the medieval production of spiced wines and the herb gardens laid out for this purpose. The vineyard landscape includes historic dry stone walls and terraces.
