Braving the rainy season: Plochingen winegrowers are preparing the harvest!

Braving the rainy season: Plochingen winegrowers are preparing the harvest!

In the heart of the Stuttgart region, in Plochingen, members of the association for the promotion of historical viticulture are passionately committed to growing wine. They are currently cultivating seven different grape varieties on their vineyard on the “Nothalde” between Plochingen and Altbach. Despite the unstable weather and occasional rain showers, the club members continued their work in the vineyard during this time. With rain capes, rubber boots and pruning shears, they are well equipped and ready for the upcoming harvest. Sabrina Bunge, a board member of the association, emphasizes that work in the vineyard is essential, even in adverse weather conditions, to ensure the quality of the grapes.

The grape varieties grown in the association's vineyard contribute to the diversity of local wine production. Among the varieties is the Lemberger, also known as Blaufränkisch or Blauer Limberger. This early-sprouting red grape grows particularly well in mild climates and has adapted well to the current climatic changes in the region. The Lemberger is known for its aromas of cherries, plums and berries and produces wines that are light and fruity as well as tannin-rich with an intense red color. In Baden-Württemberg, Lemberger is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Trollinger, to increase fruitiness and complexity.

The diversity of grape varieties

In total, around 13% of the vineyard area in Baden-Württemberg is planted with Lemberg grapes, which underlines the importance of this grape variety. The first harvest took place in the 2022 harvest year, which further reinforces the emerging wine culture in Plochingen. The wines are often recommended as an accompaniment to hearty roasts from Swabian cuisine as well as to strongly seasoned vegetable or pasta dishes and mature cheeses.

The wine-growing culture in Germany has a long tradition that goes back to Roman times. It is currently the largest wine-growing region north of the Alps and extends over 13 growing areas, mainly along the Rhine, Moselle and Neckar rivers. The different types of soil, from the calcareous soils in the Palatinate to the steep slate slopes of the Moselle, have a significant influence on the quality and character of the wines.

Important grape varieties and terroir

The most commonly grown grape varieties in Germany are Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Each of these varieties brings its own characteristic flavors and qualities. While Riesling is known for its high acidity and fruity aromas, Pinot Noir is characterized by its complex notes of red berries and spices. The terroir, which describes the interactions between climate, soil and cultivation techniques, plays a central role here and ensures that high-quality wines with a clear origin and unique character are created.

With the challenges of climate change, winemakers are increasingly experimenting with new cultivation and pressing techniques to ensure the quality of their wines in the future. As a result, Germany remains a relevant factor on the international wine market, not only because of its diversity, but also because of the remarkable quality of its products.

The wine from Plochingen and the entire German wine industry impressively show how tradition and innovation go hand in hand. The example of the Plochinger Association makes it clear that, despite all the challenges, local viticulture not only continues to exist, but also thrives.