2023 Orangelack Riesling Kabinett Schloss Johannisberg Rheingau 0.75l

2023 Schloss Johannisberger "Orangelack" Riesling Kabinett Schloss Johannisberg - Rheingau
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

Since 1720, Schloss Johannisberg in the Rheingau has been considered the world's oldest Riesling winery and the cradle of significant chapters in wine history – from the discovery of the Spätlese (1775) to the first ice wine (1858). With its 50 hectares of vineyards, facing exactly south, the vineyard rests on a quartzite hill in the Taunus massif , covered in iron-rich loess and clay soils. The striking 50th parallel runs directly through the vineyard and, with its strong temperature differences between day and night, ensures an incomparable aromatic expression. The Orangelack is a successful reissue of a Kabinett that was part of the castle's profile until 1979 – more complex and concentrated than the Rotlack, yet still playful and refined.

Expansion:

The grapes were hand-picked during the first week of harvest in the central part of the Johannisberg vineyard, then gently pressed as whole clusters in a basket press . The must was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and clarity of the fruit. The wine then matured for six months on the fine lees in a 1,200-liter barrel made from the castle's own oak.

Aroma & Taste:

The nose unfolds with a captivating interplay of yellow plum, white peach, and orange blossom , complemented by hints of lavender and sage . On the palate, the 2023 Orangelack displays a delicate, almost weightless texture , carried by juicy stone fruit, delicate mandarin zest , and subtle exotic notes of passion fruit . The balance of delicate sweetness, lively acidity, and salty freshness makes it a Kabinett wine with seductive lightness and a long, aromatic finish.

Food recommendation:

Thanks to its elegant residual sweetness and lightness, the Orange Lacquer is a versatile accompaniment to Asian dishes with a slight spiciness, spicy cheeses such as Münster or Taleggio, fruity desserts (e.g. apricot tart) or simply as an invigorating aperitif .

Special features of the 2023 vintage in the Rheingau:

The 2023 vintage in the Rheingau was very good to excellent , characterized by a warm, sunny summer that ensured good ripening. Sufficient rainfall prevented drought stress, allowing the Riesling grapes to harvest with full aromas, moderate acidity, and a healthy balance . Kabinett wines such as the Orangelack, in particular, demonstrate a harmonious combination of fruitiness, elegance, and stimulating freshness .

Conclusion:

The 2023 Orangelack Riesling Kabinett is a successful revival of a Schloss Johannisberg tradition : a Kabinett that exudes not only lightness, but also depth and complexity. With its stone fruit aromas, floral spice, and a delicate balance between sweetness and acidity, it is seductive, enticing, and yet ages well. A Kabinett for connoisseurs who appreciate the interplay between elegance and finesse .