Two German legends: the 2019s from Stodden and Dönnhoff

This is a brilliant introduction to the estate, from a selection of vineyards in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Dernau and Rech. Cherry fruit and some spice, and then a long and mineral finish. Just such a delicious Pinot Noir, with excellent potential.

From the vineyard above the winery, and a real insider’s pick. South facing slate soils craft a dark and brooding Pinot Noir, but one that retains brilliant dancing acidity. This is made from the same side as the GG Herrenberg, and shows much of the same character: it’s a baby grand cru.

Planted in the early 1980s, Alexander Stodden has cared for this vineyard since 2001. From Greywacke soils, with some clay, this is a powerful and spectacularly long wine. Notes of dark berries and some spice, and then a mineral finish. Bravo.

From Jean Stodden's most famous vineyard, this is incredible in 2019. There's so much going on here, with spice and dark fruit, and a hint of liquorice, too. The finish is mineral and so well defined, and goes on for an age. With elegance yet power, this wouldn't look our of place in a line up of Burgundy Grands Crus.

An auction wine, this is a wine that’s all about subtlety and poise. Velvet tannins grow on the palate, while notes of herbs and small berry fruit dance around the mouth. The finish is mineral, detailed, and lasts an age. A true Grand Cru: one of Germany’s greatest Pinot Noirs, made is miniscule quantities.

From the oldest vines of the estate, this is an astonishing Pinot Noir, that’s up there with the very best that Burgundy has to offer. Wonderful detail and complexity, and then a finish that lasts for minutes. This is a must have for any Pinot Noir lover.