German Pinot Noir Case

Top pinot from the Kaiserstuhl in Baden. Rich, spicy and long, and deeply complex with cherry pips and vanilla. The Kaiserstuhl is a volcanic stump in south-west Baden that is widely regarded as the best vineyard area in this part of Germany.

This is a top single vineyard on volcanic soils in the southernmost part of Baden in Germany looking over Lake Constance where conditions are perfect for growing pinot. This has depth of red-fruit flavour and finesse to match.

Elegant pinot noir from a top producer in the Kaiserstuhl in Baden. Light in colour and with a flavour recalling cherry and cherry kernels. Particularly ripe in this famously hot vintage, but elegant too.

Refined pinot noir from Baden in southern Germany, with fresh, cherry-like flavours with a lingering finish. Baden is earning itself some renown in the UK for its wines these days, particularly pinot noir. In the Markgräferland, between the Black Forest and the Rhine, the undulating countryside and warm summer weather has led to the area becoming known as the German Tuscany and there is a history of winemaking that goes back almost as long as in the more famous Italian region.

There was a time when the German region of Rheingau was planted mostly with red grapes but that changed when riesling suddenly became fashionable. The burgers of Assmansshausen were unmoved and stuck to reds. In the last few years, quality has soared, as is evident here. Ripe, juicy, cherry-like fruit, round and long.

Soft, fruity pinot from the Palatinate in Germany. Packed with ripe cherry flavours, light in structure and refreshing, this could be served lightly chilled. Southern Germany is home to a number of co-operatives, this one being especially good. It is also home to endless numbers of grape varieties. The reason is climate: this is easily the warmest part of Germany, where everything is grown.