YOUNG RIVER DEPOSITS, only a few thousand years old, overlie the iceage gravels of the river valleys. These sandy or silty deposits are nutrient-rich, fertile locations offering best conditions for grapevines if climatic and hydrological conditions permit.
The microclimate of the riparian zones often differs noticeably from the locations along the slopes. On the one hand, cold air descends the slopes and collects in the valleys. The bottom of the valley is cold in the mornings, the humidity is higher and the mists linger in spring and autumn before dissipated by the sun. This can impede shoot growth and ripening. On the other hand, the humidity is elevated in the hot summer weather creating a unique warm humid climate.
     The sandy silt Main river deposits are calcareous and rich in nutrients. The subsoil consists of a very dense layer of tertiary limestone debris, which is near impervious to roots. Thus, the root zone is restricted to the river deposits. Because the site is located several metres above the river level it is not affected by groundwater.
     The rootability and aeration of the topsoil is good. The deep plough horizon contains large amounts of added humus and calcareous clay substrate. The clay between the limestone contains large amounts of trace elements. The soil provides the plants with a good and balanced supply of nutrients and water.