Under the visionary leadership of Johannes Leitz, Weingut Josef Leitz has ascended to the pinnacle of Rheingau's viticulture, establishing itself as a beacon of excellence in German winemaking. Since assuming control of his familial estate in 1985, Johannes has expanded his domain from a modest 2.6 hectares to an impressive expanse of over 40 hectares, predominantly composed of Grand Cru sites nestled on the Rüdesheimer Berg's slopes. This transformation is a testament to his dedication to reviving the region's storied winemaking legacy, which had seen a decline in the post-World War II era. Today, Leitz is synonymous with the Rheingau's renaissance, showcasing the region's unparalleled potential through meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques.
The Rheingau, a compact yet historically rich wine region, benefits from its unique geographical positioning and the climatic advantages afforded by its south-facing slopes. These factors, coupled with the region's distinctive quartzite and slate soil composition, play a pivotal role in defining the character and quality of Leitz's wines. The estate's vineyards, exclusively dedicated to Riesling, are a vivid representation of the Rheingau's terroir, with each plot, including the esteemed Grand Crus of Schlossberg, Rottland, and Roseneck, contributing to the complexity and depth of the wines produced.
Johannes Leitz's commitment to sustainable viticulture and hands-on approach in both the vineyard and the cellar underscores his philosophy that quality wine production begins with the vine. His efforts to reintroduce pre-1971 parcel names and resurrect neglected sites like Kaisersteinfels highlight his respect for tradition and dedication to showcasing the individuality of each vineyard. Recognized as "Winemaker of the Year" by Gault Millau in 2011, Johannes Leitz and his wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality and contribution to the global reputation of German wines.