Location and Classification
Baron is a registered single-vineyard site in Sankt Martin in the Pfalz. The official wine-growing site number is 810810. The site is assigned to the large vineyard Schloß Ludwigshöhe.
Topography and Soil
The vineyards lie at around 185 to 252 metres above sea level and have a south-easterly exposure with slope gradients of up to 12 per cent. The soil consists of calcareous marl and loams (Letten), a clay-rich sediment with silt, sand and small proportions of limestone from tertiary marine deposits. The clay content can store water; during longer dry periods, cracks can form and make cultivation more difficult.
History and Grape Varieties
The name Baron refers to the historic barons associated with Kropsburg and the Dalberg family. In 2001, a historical vineyard was laid out above the Haardtmadonna, which preserves the grape variety Früher Malingre. It comprises 40 vines on three rows, showing successive forms of wire training. In addition to the documented plantings of the site, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are also included.
Wine Making
A documented Pinot Noir from St. Martin Baron is produced as a dry German Prädikatswein and matures for two years on the lees in a 300-litre wooden cask. The grapes from the historic vineyard are processed into sparkling wine (Sekt) every year.
