Think you don't like German wine; then think again. This really is exceptional for the price. Grauer Burgunder is the German name for Pinot Gris, or Pinot Grigio as the Italians call it, and the word 'Trocken' indicates that it is dry. It is, however, a far more serious and opulent wine than many labelled as Pinot Grigio. Although the wine leaves a delightfully fresh and vibrant finish, it has some fabulous texture and body. On the palate it is tropical mango and peach that dominate, yet it is the grapefruit flourish on the finish that really gives it a lift.

Once tasted we are convinced this will convert a lot of sceptics on to German wine.

The Pfalz region in Germany is second only to the Mosel in acreage planted with the noble Riesling grape. Here it yields wines of substance and finesse, with a less austere acidity than their Mosel counterparts. Pleasant, mild white wines rich in bouquet and full of body.

Fritz Walter's is a great example. As mentioned above the emphasis is a little more on richness of texture and ripe fruit than the more vibrant acidity of Mosel examples. It's not lacking in Riesling character, however, as it is ripe citrus that dominates the palate. It's relatively dry and fresh, yet with structure and body, making a very versatile wine with or without food.

Germany’s Mosel region is world famous for its steep and stony slopes as well as its slate soil.

The vines which grow on these steep slate slopes profit from the angle of the sun and the perfect heat storage property of the slate. It absorbs the heat from the day and gives it back to the vines at night. In combination with the cool climate it helps the grapes to ripen.

The result are wines with high minerality and a lively character. This Riesling has fine fruit aromas such as citrus and green apple, which are balanced out by a gentle sweetness

All in all a very authentic Mosel Riesling.

This Weissburgunder, Pinot Blanc in France, is likely to become a firm favourite here at Baythorne Hall. It's such an easy drinking style, with the most delicate spritz on first opening. It's flavours are of lovely orchard fruit, ripe pear and greengage, and it finishes dry and fresh. 

We may not see many on the shelves in the UK, but German reds are well worth looking out for. This Pinot Noir is a cracking example. It's a punchy full-throttle Pinot with a good rich texture, vibrant fruit and a delightful toasty edge to it.