I’ve spent the last day and a half in the Ahr Valley in northern Germany. It’s my first visit here. This is a small, compact region that’s a tight valley with vineyards on either side, many of which are incredibly steeply sloped. The predominant soil type is slate, and this is Pinot Noir country. I visited three of the top producers in the region and was blown away by the wines. There is some serious, world class Pinot Noir being made here. For now, some pictures. More to come shortly.

My travelling companion Lars Daniels trying not to die on a scary steep vineyard

Dőrte and Meike Näkel of the remarkable Meyer Näkel estate

Alexander Stodden of Jean Stodden