The vineyard Morstein
Site and extent
Morstein is a single vineyard in Westhofen in the Wonnegau sub-region of Rheinhessen. The vineyard site covers around 151 hectares; the separately designated core, VDP.GROSSE LAGE®, comprises 24 hectares.
Relief and soils
The south-facing hillside extends from around 150 to 240 metres above sea level. The classified core lies between 180 and 240 metres, has a gradient of approximately 20 to 25 percent and rises to a high plateau around 280 metres high. It extends westwards in the direction of Gundersheim.
The topsoil consists mostly of heavy clay marl with inclusions of limestone. Underneath are massive, stony or porous limestone layers; the VDP describes the subsoil as water-bearing. The heavy, stony and limestone-influenced soil makes it difficult for the vine roots to penetrate, while deeper limestone layers provide water, minerals and nutrients during longer dry periods.
Grape varieties and ripening
For Morstein, Riesling, Spätburgunder and Silvaner are classified, with Riesling and Spätburgunder being the dominant plantings. The classified core has a comparatively long growing season, so the grapes tend to ripen late.
Classification and history
The central area is classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE®. An official data sheet describes Morstein GG as a dry Riesling and Grosses Gewächs; wines from VDP.GROSSE LAGE® sites are described there with potential for ripeness. Morstein was first mentioned in 1282 as “Marsten” in a document about a gift to the Cistercian monastery of Otterberg. The name is probably derived from “Marstein”, i.e. a boundary or landmark stone.
