The Ahr Valley is one of Germany’s most northerly wine regions, and the most northerly wine region in the world dominated by red grapes. Indeed, it’s found at the same latitude as Eastbourne in the UK, and is to the north of the Mosel, famed for its crisp, precise Rieslings. Yet in the Ahr Valley, warm microclimates with steep terraces on slate hillsides give perfect conditions for ripening Pinot Noir, or Spätburgunder as it’s known here. And Jean Stodden is the finest estate in the region. Jean passed away in 2013, so it’s his son, Alexander, at the helm. These are incredibly Burgundian Pinot Noirs, vinified and aged in top French oak barrels. The JS comes from a blend of vineyards, and is complex and structured, yet still easy-going in its youth. It’s the perfect match for lighter meats, like roast pork or veal.  In 2021, the estate was devastated by the deadly floods that swept the Ahr valley: Alexander and his wonderful wines are worthy of our support.