Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Rotlack Kabinett 2023

Winery Background and History

Schloss Johannisberg stands atop a hill in the Rheingau, Germany, and is celebrated as the world’s first estate entirely dedicated to Riesling, with a winemaking history stretching back over 900 years. This pioneering heritage has shaped both German viticulture and late-harvest wine traditions. 

Producer and Wine Maker

This Kabinett-level Riesling is made by the experienced team at Schloss Johannisberg, now part of the Dr. Oetker portfolio. They focus on expressive, organic viticulture and classic winemaking that honors the estate’s legacy while embracing sustainability. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes come from steep, sloped vineyards in Rheingau, with terroir-rich, quartzite and mineral-rich soils. The cool continental climate, combined with the protective vineyards’ elevation, ensures vibrant acidity and refined aromatic development. (Inferred from regional context and organic practices.)

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and gently crushed, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel. Some wine sees lees contact for around five months for textural complexity. 

Tasting notes

This wine offers ripe citrus aromas, lemon grass, wild strawberry, and herbal nuances, with a creamy texture and long, mineral finish. Other notes include red orchard fruits and fine stony tension. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Perfect with salads, seafood, lighter poultry dishes, and savory-spiced Asian cuisine—its balance of sweetness and acidity makes it exceptionally versatile. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at around 8–10 °C in a white wine or Riesling glass to highlight the wine’s freshness and minerality. (General best practice for Kabinett-style Riesling.)

Storage and Aging Potential

Built for elegance and longevity, the wine can evolve gracefully over the next 6–10 years, maintaining its lifted fruit and structural precision. (Inferred from its Kabinett structure and organic viticulture.)

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Riesling, as required by designation and typical of Schloss Johannisberg wines. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 11%—indicative of Kabinett-level sweetness and ripeness. 

Scores (highest to lowest)

• James Suckling: 94 points 

• Robert Parker (Wine Advocate): 93 points 

• Falstaff: 91+ points (Falstaff Wine Guide Germany 2025)