1999 Frühburgunder trocken, Ahr, Germany

Clear cherry to garnet red, lighter at the rim. Cool bouquet of cherry preserves and red berries, with a mineral note and a delicately smoky spicy wood note in the background. Juicy fruit, showing definite spicy wood, slightly smoky and toasted touch, lightly dusty tannin, slightly rustic style. On the palate, definite roasted notes, liquorice and some black dried fruit, noticeable alcohol level. Gains juiciness and sweet fruit if given time, good long finish.

Best to drink: Up to 2005. What our ratings mean