2000 Spätburgunder trocken J.J., Ahr, Germany

Garnet red with brick tinges, significantly lighter on the rim. Lots of wood on the nose, behind that red berry preserves and plums. Straightforward elegantly juicy fruit, prominent spicy oak, slightly smoky, evident, fairly fine-grained tannins, firmly structured and quite powerful, persistent on the palate, notes of smoked bacon, but also firm fruit, very good balance, very attractive long finish.

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