Wines Rheingau Schloss Johannisberg - Silberlack - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Schloss Johannisberg Cuvée Silberlack Grand Cru is a remarkable dry white wine from Germany’s esteemed Rheingau region. This cuvée, crafted exclusively from Riesling grapes, showcases the elegance and structure typical of Schloss Johannisberg, one of the most historic estates dedicated solely to this noble varietal. The 2021 vintage stands out with its exceptional freshness and purity, shaped by a relatively cool growing season that preserved vibrant acidity and allowed slow, steady fruit development. The Silberlack selection comes from the finest parcels of the single vineyard, renowned for its loamy loess soil with significant quartzite deposits, imparting a marked mineral backbone to the wine. Careful vinification in stainless steel, with partial maturation in large oak casks, results in a wine that is both pristine and complex, boasting aromas of white peach, grapefruit, green apple, and a delicate herbal nuance.

Rheingau lies on the right bank of the Rhine and is internationally celebrated as the cradle of German Riesling. Its south-facing slopes and proximity to the river create a moderated climate, with long, sunny autumns ideal for slow ripening, ensuring an aromatic depth and finely tuned acidity. The mineral-rich soils of Schloss Johannisberg’s monopole vineyard have produced Riesling for over a millennium, with the estate playing a legendary role in the development of late-harvest (Spätlese) traditions, reinforcing its status as a reference point for the varietal worldwide.

Cuvée Silberlack’s vibrant character and minerality make it superb with refined seafood dishes such as seared scallops, sautéed prawns with lemon beurre blanc, or delicate freshwater fish like trout or zander. The wine pairs beautifully with fine poultry in light sauces, spring asparagus, and classic Rheingau cuisine such as Handkäse mit Musik. For a local touch, consider spiced pork sausages or a herbed veal schnitzel.

For optimal appreciation, serve this Grand Cru Riesling well-chilled at 8-10°C. Decanting for a short time releases its aromatic complexity, and the wine will reward you with further nuance as it opens in the glass. Enjoy now for its lively fruit, or cellar for several years to discover evolved notes of honey, petrol, and spice.