Wine of the day - Bensheimer Kalkgasse

Today another Bensheim wine. This time Bensheim Kalkgasse (literally Lime Alley). This vineyard has always belonged to the Staatsweingut and has expanded over the years from 0.5 to 2.2 Hectares. The name comes from the calciferous soil and the narrow dells caused by erosion. Up to the end of the last century limestone was quarried here. Today, all that’s left is a disused sandstone quarry that acts as a natural habitat for birds and small animals. The steep slopes, which face south and southwest, are considered by many as the best in Bensheim. The weathered granite ground, which is covered with just 40 centimetres of crumbly soil, gives this wine its unmistakable character. The wine is delicately fruity with a strong, nutty acidity. It is well suited for storing several years during which it will develop its full elegance. Riesling, in particular, regularly delivers here an above average performance. Interestingly, the Staatsweingut produces a rosé from the Kalkgasse Spätburgunder. This is a refreshing, wine with a strong rosé colour and ripe berry flavour.

Finally - the cellars are empty and I can no longer buy my favourite Heppenheimer Herrenwingert. I still have a few 2006 bottles at home however. The 2007 vintage is not yet available but should be within the next 6 weeks. At least the 2007 vintage does not lack for quantity and I am told the quality should be good - let's wait and see (I mean taste).