CORE COMPETENCE IN STEEP VINEYARDS
The grapes for Heyl zu Herrnsheim’s finest wines are sourced exclusively from steep sites in on the “Roter Hang” (literally, “red slope”). With its 10 ha (25 acres) of vines, Heyl zu Herrnsheim is one of the leading owners among the estates with holdings there. Thanks to experience, know-how and the concerted efforts of our staff, together with our associate estate, St. Antony, Heyl zu Herrnsheim has developed core competence in cultivating vines in steep vineyards, where working conditions are extreme.
Heyl zu Herrnsheim’s holdings on the Roter Hang include parcels in the sites Pettental, Ölberg and Rothenberg. In addition, Heyl zu Herrnsheim is sole owner of the world-renowned site Brudersberg.
Heyl zu Herrnsheim’s focus is on white wines. Riesling, the “prima donna,” is supplemented by the “diva” Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc). At this time, Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) is used only for the production of sparkling wine.
THE ROTER HANG
This steep slope extends for some five kilometers (three miles) with a total of 180 ha (445 acres) of vines between Nackenheim and Nierstein on the left bank of the Rhine. The Roter Hang has a very special terroir. The mineral-rich soil, a mixture of iron and clayish slate, is at least 250 million years old (Permian Period). The slope faces south to southeast, which affords an optimal use of solar radiation. The red slate retains warmth, and additional warmth comes from the sunlight reflected from the surface of the Rhine. The Roter Hang’s terroir qualities are discernible in the character and wealth of aromas in the wines. ang’s
The “Grosse Gewächse” (Great Growth) Sites
BRUDERSBERG
Size: 1.3 ha (3.2 acres)
Location: 90 to 160 meters above sea level; angle of inclination: 65%
The original size of the site has never changed.
Replanted 1981/83.
Grape varieties: 100 percent Riesling
Special features: sole ownership
Wine profile: Multifaceted, multilayered wines with complex forms of expression, pronounced Riesling note, and lively acidity. Wines that develop slowly, need breathing time to open up, have great aging potential. Mineral character, rich in nuances, and lingering aftertaste. Outstanding, even in average years.
Wine styles: dry, lusciously sweet
PETTENTAL
Size: 32 ha (79 acres), of which 3.5 ha (8.65 acres) belong to Heyl zu Herrnsheim
Location: 90 to 170 meters above sea level; angle of inclination: 50-60%.
Replanted 1978/85.
Grape varieties: 100 percent Riesling
Special features: Weingut Heyl zu Herrnsheim’s holdings are primarily located in the old, steep and world-renowned parcels “Floss” and “Ober-Rehbach.”
Wine profile: The traditional wine from the Roter Hang: substantial, full-bodied, well-balanced, full of character. Balanced ratio of body and acidity, so that the wines never seem aggressive. Especially typical of Pettental wines: aromas and flavors of exotic fruits. They develop slowly and even after five or six years are as fresh as ever.
Wine styles: dry, lusciously sweet
NACKENHEIMER ROTHENBERG
Size: 20 ha (50 acres), of which 1.1 ha (2.7 acres) belong to Heyl zu Herrnsheim
Location: 80 to 140 meters above sea level; angle of inclination: ca. 50%
Replanted 1994/95.
Grape varieties: Riesling, Silvaner
Special features: Heyl zu Herrnsheim’s portion is in the heart of the Rothenberg, with an angle of inclination of up to 70%. The first “Great Growth” was produced here in 2006.
Wine profile: Very straightforward, firm wines with considerable backbone. Compact. In their youth, full of charm. Vigorous, without aggressively forward acidity.
Wine styles: Grapes are components of the Rotschiefer Riesling Cuvée and, for the first time in the estate’s history: 2006 Rothernberg Riesling “Grosses Gewächs” and 2006 Rothenberg Riesling Spätlese.