VDP.GROSSE LAGE designates the highest quality German vineyards. In the VDP.GROSSE LAGE Walporzheim, the wide, lower Ahr valley closes off with the consolidated vineyards in Neuenahr and Ahrweiler. The slopes become steeper and transition into impressive terraced vineyards, which have established the ancient reputation of one of the Ahr's most prestigious sites. The vineyard's name is likely derived from the Romans, who settled nearby and cultivated both grapevines and their Mediterranean herbs on the Kräuterberg (Herb Hill) due to the favorable climatic conditions. The soil, composed of stony, fine-sandy loam with weathered slate and greywacke, the slope, and the intense sunlight create an almost Mediterranean microclimate. This results in a bouquet-rich, powerful wine with typical herbal aromas and excellent minerality, promising great aging potential.
Pinot Noir (or Spätburgunder) is the world's most popular red wine grape variety thanks to its adaptability to different flavor profiles. However, this sensitive grape demands specific growing conditions and requires the winemaker to possess all their knowledge and expertise. The labor-intensive steep slopes of the Ahr region offer ideal conditions for coaxing a balanced combination of color, fruit, and Burgundy bouquet from this grape. Only a long ripening period on the vine allows for the typical aromatics and elegant acidity and tannin structure. The slate soils of the Ahr region impart a distinctive minerality to the Pinot Noir, making it truly unique.
