Location and Classification
The Reiterpfad is a vineyard site in Ruppertsberg in the growing region Pfalz. The VDP classifies the site as VDP.ERSTE LAGE® with a classified area of 57.00 hectares.
Topography and Climate
The site extends across a broad terrace with a slight gradient to the east into the south-east. It lies at an altitude of 120 to 175 metres and has slopes of 0 to 15 per cent. The exposed area receives sun from the early morning hours until late evening and is protected from wind by the continuous Haardt ridge between Ruppertsberg and Wachenheim. Areas at the edge of the forest are somewhat cooler and more humid.
Soils
The terrace was formed from red Buntsandstein debris from the Haardt. For the site, sandy loam and Buntsandstein weathering material are listed. The documented Christmann parcel features Buntsandstein gravel.
Grape Varieties and Wine Making
As classified grape varieties, the VDP lists Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Scheurebe and Pinot Noir. In the Reiterpfad-Hofstück sub-parcel, a VDP.GROSSE LAGE® with 10.99 hectares, Riesling is represented by virtually exclusively; the sub-parcel lies on a limestone base with Buntsandstein, loess and occasional basalt in the topsoil. The documented vines from the Christmann parcel were planted in 1992. The grapes are selectively hand-harvested into small crates, fermented spontaneously and matured in stainless steel and large wooden casks.
