Schloss Gelblack Riesling OBA 2023

Winery Background and History

Schloss Johannisberg, perched above the Rhine in the Rheingau, is celebrated as the world’s first vineyard dedicated exclusively to Riesling cultivation (since around 1720), with viticulture on the site dating back to the early Middle Ages. The former Benedictine monastery evolved into a princely estate renowned for pioneering late-harvest styles like Spätlese (1775) and Auslese (1787). Today, under the Oetker family’s ownership, it remains a cornerstone of German Riesling innovation and tradition, combining heritage cellars with modern winemaking. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Schloss Johannisberg, part of Henkell Freixenet under the Oetker group’s stewardship. The winemaking team emphasizes sustainable practices and organic certification, harvesting Riesling by hand and fermenting carefully to preserve purity. Gelblack represents their Qualitätswein dry Riesling tier, focusing on energy, clarity, and a faithful expression of the prestigious Schloss Johannisberg terroir. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The steep, south-facing Schlossberg vineyard features quartzite soils over loess and loam, capturing Rhine-reflective warmth and promoting moderate diurnal temperatures. With elevations from 110 to 182 m, it delivers slow, aromatic ripening with pronounced minerality thanks to its consistent slope, optimal sun exposure, and drainage. The microclimate balances ripeness and acidity, central to the wine’s structure. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Hand-harvested Riesling is softly pressed, with fermentation primarily in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. A small portion (around 10 %) undergoes fermentation in large neutral wooden barrels for added texture, before cuvée assembly and aging on fine lees, ensuring balance between fruit clarity and structural complexity. 

Tasting Notes

Vibrant and dry, the wine opens with complex aromas of yellow peach, grapefruit, kiwi, red gooseberry, and hints of orange blossom. The palate is elegantly structured, cool and lively, with remarkable concentration and a long, refined finish. The overall impression is clean, mineral-driven, and full of youthful energy. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs superbly with refined seafood (oysters, crab, lobster), sashimi, grilled white fish, roast poultry, lightly spiced Asian fare, and creamy cheeses. Its high acidity and stone-driven balance make it versatile with both delicate and slightly richer dishes, especially citrus-herb flavors. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Best served chilled at 8–10 °C (46–50 °F) in a medium-sized white wine or Riesling glass. Allowing a gentle rise to room temperature releases deeper fruit layers and savory minerals. Avoid over-chilling below 6 °C to maintain aromatic clarity. A brief decant isn’t necessary but may help youthful bottles open up; reseal and refrigerate—excellent for 24–48 hours post-opening.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store in a cool, stable environment (12–14 °C), away from light and vibrations. Though crafted for early enjoyment, the precise structure and acidity enable aging potential of 5–8 years. Peak balance is likely around 2026–2028, with graceful development possible into the early 2030s under ideal conditions. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100 % Riesling 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5 % 

Scores

• Wine Advocate: ~90+ (Robert Parker) 

• James Suckling: 93