Schloss Johannisberg : Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021

A German Riesling that expresses minerality and freshness

The estate

Boasting a rich wine heritage that spans over a thousand years, Schloss Johannisberg is a must-know reference among fine German wines. Founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 12th century, the estate then entered a period of uncertainty due to Germany’s turbulent political and economic history over several centuries. Paradoxically, these challenges enabled Schloss Johannisberg to rise like a wine phoenix and come out in an even more glowing and prosperous manner: all the land was planted with Riesling, making the estate the first and one of the finest walled vineyards to comprise this variety in the world.

The vineyard

Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021 comes from an extraordinary terroir that is renowned for producing some of the finest German wines. The vineyards enjoy an ideal position and are poised on a 45 degree south-facing slope at an altitude of 114 to 181 metres. The forest protects the vineyard from cold winds and the Rhine river, which runs like a lake in the foothills of the estate, influences the soil. Schloss Johannisberg is situated on the 50th parallel north, offering a great difference in temperature between day and night and enabling the grapes to develop their aromas and a plesant acidity. The soil is rich in quartz and silt, giving a very nice minerality to these Riesling wines.

The vintage

The temperatures and rainfall in the Rheingau were average throughout the year 2021. The buds were not damaged by the cold because they came out later, at the end of April.
The autumn was cool and rainy, and the harvest was carried out at a steady pace so as not to leave the grapes to rot. This vintage is marked by a high-quality and abundant harvest.

Vinification and ageing

Following manual harvesting with the greatest care, the grapes are taken to the cellar to be gently pressed. Afterwards, 15% of the wine is fermented in Schloss Johannisberg 1200-litre oak barrels and 85% in stainless steel tanks.

The blend

Riesling (100%).

Schloss Johannisberg: Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021 has a bright yellow colour with green highlights.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet fully expresses the lemony freshness, underlined by green apple and apricot fragrances and a hint of spicy herbs.

Palate
Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021 is a bold wine with a perfect balance of minerality and acidic freshness that carries through to an impressively long finish.

Food and wine pairing

Riesling Gelblack Trocken 2021 will enhance fish, poultry, vegetables and pasta and risotto.

Service and storage

For an optimal tasting, serve between 7 and 9 degrees.