Location and classification
Krötenpfuhl is a single vineyard in Bad Kreuznach on the Nahe. In the official register of vineyard sites for 2024, the site is listed under number 510121 in the municipal area and in the cadastral district of Bad Kreuznach; there, 6.8 hectares of planted vineyard area are recorded. The VDP lists Krötenpfuhl as VDP.GROSSE LAGE® with a classified area of about seven hectares.
Topography, soil and climate
The south-facing site lies at around 135 to 153 metres above sea level and has a slope gradient of 10 to 40 percent. The soil is described as loess clay with quartzite and small pebbles, and as loamy gravel with loess deposited by run-off. The southern exposure and heat-storing pebbles promote rapid warming and extend the availability of warmth into the evening. Documented water-bearing veins and groundwater occurrences support the vines in dry phases; after wet weather, water can collect at the foot of the slope.
Grape variety and wine styles
For the VDP-classified site, Riesling is specified. Documented wines include Riesling Kabinett and Spätlese, as well as dry Riesling Grosses Gewächs. A Riesling Kabinett from Krötenpfuhl is described as fruity and elegant with herb-spiced aromatic notes, delicate fruit sweetness and pronounced acidity.
History and vinification
The name Krötenpfuhl has been documented since 1832. The VDP describes the site historically as an outstanding wine-growing location of Bad Kreuznach. For a Riesling Grosses Gewächs, hand harvest, a yield of about 30 hectolitres per hectare and vines aged 20 to 30 years are documented. Fermentation took place in used barrels and in stainless-steel tanks; a Riesling Kabinett was fermented and matured in several small stainless-steel containers.
