Nackenheim

ROTHENBERG | VDP.GROSSE LAGE

90 - 140 m in elevation, approx. 75 – 120% gradient, red slate, 8.38 classified hectares

The Rothenberg parcel owned by the Spanier family is the last ungrafted vineyard in the Roter Hang. Thanks to its isolated location and the surrounding dry-stone wall, it escaped the land consolidation measures of the 1960s. As a result, the vines planted in 1934 have survived on their own roots to this day. Perched like an eagle’s nest at the very summit of Rothenberg, this distinctive parcel of Kühling-Gillot is the steepest section of the vineyard, with slopes reaching up to 120%. Enclosed by a historic dry-stone wall, the site benefits from morning sunlight reflected from the Rhine River, while cool descending winds ensure a balanced microclimate. The rare wines produced from this historic parcel recall the former grandeur of Rothenberg.

Rothenberg was first documented in 1364 as “in dem Rode.” The name most likely refers to the striking red soil of the Rotliegend, an iron-rich sandstone and claystone formation dating back to the Permian period, which gives the Roter Hang its unmistakable character. Today, the ungrafted vines are 92 years old and provide the fruit for one of Rheinhessen’s truly great Rieslings.