German inventor, foremost in oils and in command of resin (7)

I believe the answer is:

benzoic

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'german' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for benzoic that I've seen is " containing gum resin".)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.