Location and Geology
The Kronsberg, also known as the Iphöfer Kronsberg, lies in Iphofen in the wine-growing region Franconia. The vineyard site classified as VDP.ERSTE LAGE covers 116 hectares. Its gypsum Keuper soil contains gypsum and calcareous sandstone and dates back to the marine sediments of the Triassic. The deep, well-rooted soils store water and warmth; the grey-brown soil warms up quickly.
Topography and Climate
The Kronsberg is a steep hillside with a southerly aspect, with exposures ranging from south-east to south-west. Elevations lie at about between 250 and 380 metres, with a slope gradient of approximately 20 to 50 per cent. A deep, well-rooted section south of the Julius-Echter-Berg and an eastern slope reaching as far as the forest shape the site; parts form a basin-like landscape. The sheltered hillside location is protected from cold north and east winds, while airflows from the eastern forest can lead to cooler conditions.
Grape Varieties and Wines
The Iphöfer Kronsberg is classified for Silvaner, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Scheurebe and Spätburgunder. Dry wines from these grape varieties are documented, as well as noble-sweet expressions such as Riesling Spätlese and ice wine. A Riesling from the 2021 vintage is described as a dry VDP.ERSTE-LAGE wine with aromatic fruit, fresh herbal spice and a mineral character.
Name and History
The name Kronsberg refers to the “mountain with a crown”: above the vineyards, the oak forest forms a crown-like band. The area of Kammer, described as the heart of the site, has been documented as a vineyard as early as the 15th century, when tithes were due to the Würzburg cathedral chapter.
