Johannisberg stands out from the gentle landscape of the Rheingau. It is the nucleus of a great wine culture that stretches far beyond the borders of the region. History was written here. The hill, one of three quartzite hills that lie upstream from the Taunus massif, seems predestined as a site for the castle. With its seemingly simple, straight lines and not a hint of overladen splendor, the castle overlooks the vine-clad hill in quiet majesty – a Rheingau symbol of a way of life that has included joys and pleasures, but also trials and tribulations, yet always kept its balance. Johannisberger Rieslings are born in the vineyard – literally, where they have their roots. The soil, with its geological, geographical and climatic features, is integral to the unique origin and ultimate taste profile of a wine. Quality is born during the growth of the grapes, which at Johannisberg is supported by organized vineyard management geared to local conditions. Grape quality is determined in the vineyard, not during vinification. The quality of the crop after the harvest is decisive for the quality of the finished wine. Nature’s memory is stored in the soil. Thanks to its geographical nature, this recorded geological history can repeatedly yield recurring, consistent taste profiles. The typical soil composition is Taunus quartzite beneath a topsoil layer of loam-loess. Its integral influence on the flavor of the finished wine is expressed by the grape – a quasi “spokesperson” for the soil. For nearly 300 years, Riesling has been the only varietal cultivated in the vineyard. The soil and the grape, together with the favorable climatic conditions and long viticultural tradition of Schloss Johannisberg, bring forth wines that reflect the inimitable character of their origin. As such, Johannisberg is a grand monument to the diversity of Riesling, which has found its true home in the vineyard surrounding the castle on the 50th parallel north.