Johannisberg (Wine)
It is not documented whether Vlad III Drăculea, who lived in the 15th century and served as inspiration for the Dracula story, enjoyed this wonderful white wine at his castle. However, according to legend, the Sylvaner grapes, which are now cultivated as Johannisberg in Valais, originally came from Transylvania, where wine was already being grown in the 11th century. But the more intriguing version of this origin story ends here.
In reality, DNA analyses show that Sylvaner originated in the Austrian Danube Basin. This grape variety emerged through a natural crossing of Traminer (also known as Savagnin Blanc or Heida in Valais) and Österreichisch-Weiss. While Traminer is considered a high-quality Franconian variety, Österreichisch-Weiss is a descendant of a less noble Heunisch variety.
Discovery & history of Johannisberg in Valais
Johannisberg is not a grape variety name but a wine name. In Valais, it is exclusively used for wines made from 100% Sylvaner grapes. This grape is one of approximately 100 varieties cultivated in Valais.
The name Johannisberg is derived from the eponymous castle in the Rheingau region of Germany. This castle is the oldest and arguably the most famous Riesling winery in the world, established around 1100 as a Benedictine monastery where monks cultivated vineyards.
It is thanks to Sergeant François-Eugène Masson that the Sylvaner grape variety produces premium wines in Valais today. After the Sonderbund War ended in 1847, the soldier returned with a Vaud company and spent a night near the present-day capital Sion. Within a year, he came back to Valais, acquired land in Pont-de-la-Morge, and began planting vines.
When his son Georges visited Schloss Johannisberg in 1870, he brought Sylvaner or Riesling cuttings back with him. The name Johannisberg was first used in Valais in 1862. Initially referring to Riesling, it was exclusively associated with Sylvaner (Gros Rhin) starting in 1928.
Flavor profiles of Johannisberg
This wine naturally presents itself as bold and fruity in the glass. Johannisberg AOC Valais wines offer wine enthusiasts a complex array of aromas: from fresh citrus notes, grapefruit, apple, and pear to herbal tea. Fuller-bodied variants captivate with honey, melon, and pineapple.
A subtle note of bitter almond is always present on the palate. Late-harvested grapes develop a deeper sweetness without losing the characteristic almond note. Johannisberg is thus considered a high-quality wine.
The right soil matters
Sylvaner grapes are harvested late, resulting in less acidity and aroma compared to Riesling but more than Chasselas. Good vintages from optimal locations with the right limestone, slate, and gravel soils can produce bold, harmonious wines with a subtle floral fragrance.
Johannisberg Weidmannstrunk
Homage to great-uncle Leo
The Weidmannstrunk is cultivated in Chamoson, Sion, and Leytron. On dry, gravelly soil, this Johannisberg develops its best characteristics. It impresses with its rich fullness and typical, charming taste. The dry finish perfectly rounds out the harmony of Johannisberg. Best enjoyed within three years at around 8-10 degrees Celsius.
Like all our wines, the label of Johannisberg also tells its story. Adrian's great-uncle and godfather, a passionate hunter and dedicated winemaker in Salgesch, loved this wine. After his death, the wine was named Weidmannstrunk in his honor, with a pheasant gracing the label. This wine was his favorite and never missed a hunt.
Johannisberg in the wine world
Johannisberg is a white wine with AOC certification. After Fendant/Chasselas, it is the second most important white wine variety in the canton of Valais, the largest wine region in Switzerland. In Valais, Johannisberg is considered one of the traditional grape varieties and bears the designation Valais Grand Cru. Since 1966, the name Johannisberg has been legally protected in Valais.
The grape proves reliable in yield even in climatically challenging areas, often producing under-ripe grapes. Since 1985, cultivation has been strictly regulated by law: only Sylvaner grapes from the first production zones (Leytron, Chamoson, and Sion) may bear the appellation, and Johannisberg may only be grown in these three areas.
The cultivation area initially shrank by half to about 220 hectares but later stabilized at just over 310 hectares. A classic representative of Johannisberg should have at least 95 degrees Oechsle, corresponding to about 13% alcohol by volume.
Food pairings
Thanks to its structure, this white wine is an excellent aperitif. Like the other great Valais white wine, Fendant, it pairs exceptionally well with cheese specialties such as raclette and fondue, as well as fish and seafood dishes.
Ideal companion to the king of vegetables
It is also an excellent pairing for asparagus dishes, enhancing the delicate aromas of this royal vegetable. Our pairing of Johannisberg white wine with artichokes is particularly recommended – a true culinary delight!
Our award-winning selection of Johannisberg AOC Valais wines
For your information: Our online shop offers a wide selection of Johannisberg wines. We encourage you to visit our cart to find your favorite item.
Facts about Johannisberg
What is Johannisberg as a grape?
Johannisberg is a white wine from Valais with AOC certification, made exclusively from the Sylvaner grape, known in French as Gros Rhin. This grape variety originally came to Switzerland from Austria via Germany and performs exceptionally well on the slate and gravel soils of the Rhône Valley.
What grape variety is Johannisberg?
Johannisberg is not the name of a single grape variety but refers to an AOC white wine made entirely from the Sylvaner grape (also known as Gros Rhin). Originating in Austria, it reached Switzerland via Germany. It performs exceptionally well on the alluvial hills with slate and gravel soils in the Rhône Valley.
What does Johannisberg wine taste like?
Johannisberg wines can develop fruity notes both in the nose and on the palate. These include citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit, as well as occasional hints of apple and pear.
Who owns Schloss Johannisberg?
Schloss Johannisberg and its domain are now owned by Henkell & Co. Sektkellerei, part of the Oetker Group. The wineries Schloss Johannisberg and G.H. von Mumm, also part of the group, employ around 40 permanent staff.
What is the difference between table grapes and wine grapes?
Table grapes and wine grapes are different varieties with distinct purposes. Table grapes are sweet and juicy, ideal for eating, while wine grapes are primarily used for winemaking.