Schloss Johannisberg - Riesling 1944 yellow varnish Ex Bibliotheca subterranea

Report: Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Trocken 1944 "gelblack" (Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea)

This report deals with an absolute rarity and legend of the wine world: the Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Trocken from the 1944 vintage, characterised by the "yellow seal" (gelblack) and with the provenance "Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea".

1. the winery: Schloss Johannisberg

• Historical significance:One of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the world, located in the Rheingau. Pioneer of the Spätlese (1775) and possibly the first Trockenbeerenauslese (before 1787).

• Terroir: Unique, south-facing slate soil over volcanic rock, ideal for Riesling.

• Reputation:Symbol of the highest German wine quality for centuries. The colour of the closure seal (seal) provides information about the Prädikat level or, in the case of yellow, specifically about "Trocken".

2 The 1944 vintage

• Historical context:A vintage that was produced under the extreme conditions of the Second World War. Work in the vineyard was characterised by scarcity (personnel, materials), insecurity and proximity to the front. The fact that wine was made at all - and of such high quality - is remarkable.

• Weather:The available records indicate a rather average summer, followed by a good, long autumn, which made a late harvest possible.

• Production:Only around 500 bottles of this dry Riesling were originally bottled - a tiny quantity that explains its rarity today.

3. the bottle: "Gelblack" & "Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea"

• "Gelblack": At Schloss Johannisberg, the yellow seal traditionally characterised the dryRiesling of basic quality (in contrast to the noble sweet Prädikat wines with green, pink or red seals). However, this "simple" dry wine was made from the best, healthiest grapes from the main harvest. A "gelblack" from 1944 thus represents the purest essence of the Johannisberg terroir of this historic vintage in dry form.

• "Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea": This designation refers to a highly renowned source for old wine rarities. The castle's "Bibliotheca Subterranea" (underground library) is world-famous.

  • Provenance: The origin from this collection is well documented.

  • Storage conditions:The wines have (ideally) been stored for long periods in almost perfect, cool and dark conditions, which is crucial for their preservation.

  • Rarity & Exclusivity: Wines from this source are by definition extremely rare and sought after.

4. sensory profile (based on historical descriptions & experience with very old Rieslings)

• Appearance: Deep gold to amber colour, possibly with orange reflections. Clear and bright, without turbidity (if the bottle is intact).

• Nose:Intense and complex. Pronounced maturity development: petrol, candle, ripe exotic fruits (mango, pineapple), dried apricots, honey, nuances of nuts (hazelnut, walnut), caramel, tobacco leaves, fine mineral undertones (slate, smoke). Hardly any primary fruit.

• Palate:Astonishing freshness and acid structure for its age, which carries the wine. Voluminous texture, silky. Flavours of dried fruit, honey, tea, minerality and clear petrol. Extremely long-lasting, multi-faceted finish. The original dryness has become a harmonious, balanced "mature dryness" due to the ageing process. The complexity is overwhelming.

5. significance & evaluation

• Living testimony to history:This bottle is a tangible piece of contemporary history. It tells of the winemaking tradition under the most adverse conditions and the longevity of great Rieslings.

• Sensory jewel: In good condition, it offers a unique sensory experience that demonstrates the development potential of top Riesling over 80 years. It shows how freshness, complexity and depth can be in perfect balance.

• Extreme rarity & value:Bottles of this vintage and especially with the provenance "Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea" are extremely rare.

  • Condition of the bottle (fill level, capsule, label)

  • Integrity of the cork

  • Documented storage history

6. summary
The Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Trocken 1944 "gelblack" Ex Bibliotheca Subterranea is an icon of the wine world. It unites:

• The myth of the oldest Riesling estate in the world.

• A vintage that was created under the shadow of war.

• The rarity of an almost 80-year-old wine from a tiny production.

• The exclusivity of the provenance of a legendary collection.

• A sensory experience that demonstrates the extraordinary ageing potential and complexity of top Riesling wines.

This bottle is far more than just a drink; it is a precious piece of cultural and viticultural heritage of inestimable value and fascinating history. Its enjoyment is a rare privilege.