Schloss Johannisberg

Schloss Johannisberg
Schloss Johannisberg within its vineyards
Location	Johannisberg (Geisenheim), Hesse, Germany
Coordinates	49°59'58.9"N, 7°59'1.7"E
Founded	1100: 919 years ago
Parent company	Dr. Oetker
Known for	Schloss Johannisberg Riesling
Varietal	Riesling
Distribution	international
Tasting	open to the public
Website	schloss-johannisberg.com

Schloss Johannisberg is a neoclassical palace and historic winery located in the village of Johannisberg, west of Wiesbaden in Hesse, within the renowned Rheingau wine region of Germany. Famous as the world’s first vineyard exclusively dedicated to Riesling, the estate enjoys a winemaking tradition spanning over 900 years.^[1] Originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, the estate was transformed into a Baroque palace and winery in the early 18th century under the ownership of the Prince-Abbots of Fulda.

In the early 19th century, the estate entered a new chapter under the ownership of Austrian diplomat Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich. It was bestowed upon him by Emperor Francis I in recognition of his pivotal role at the Congress of Vienna. The Metternich family became instrumental in safeguarding and advancing the estate’s viticultural legacy, solidifying its global reputation for excellence in winemaking.

Schloss Johannisberg is celebrated as a pioneer in viticulture, particularly for its contributions to the development of late-harvest wines (Spätlese) and ice wine (Eiswein).^[2] Its 50-hectare vineyard, planted exclusively with Riesling, stands as a testament to centuries of tradition and innovation. Today, the estate continues to flourish, blending its rich history with modern winemaking expertise.

The palace also serves as a significant cultural venue. It is a prominent location for the Rheingau Musik Festival, a role made possible by co-founder princess Tatiana von Metternich-Winneburg, who ensured the estate’s continued contribution to the arts.