An exceptional site :
Situated to the north of Riquewihr, the vineyard runs along the rather steep south and south-east flanks of the Schoenenbourg hillside, at an altitude of 265 to 380 metres.It covers an area of 53,40 ha, over a water-retaining subsoil of Keuper, marl, dolomite and gypsum, rich in fertilising agents, overlaid with fine layers of quaternary siliceous gravel, Vosges sandstone and Muschelkalk, with at its eastern extremity outcrops of Lias marl limestones.
Favoured varietals :
On the Schoenenbourg, Riesling is King. Muscat and Tokay Pinot Gris also prosper admirably.
Within living memory...
Renowned ever since the early Middle Ages, the wines of the Schoenenbourg were famous throughout northern Europe in the 16th century. The great Swiss cartographer, Merian, cited in 1663 : "The Schoenenbourg, which produces the most noble wine of this country". Voltaire owned several vineyards here.
Typical characteristics :
Schoenenbourg Grand Cru wines age particularly well, and in time develop powerful, rich aromas, Its microclimate makes it admirably suited to the production of prestigious Vendange Tardive and Selection de Grains Nobles late-harvest wines.
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