Simon Field: The spirit sits quite heavily on this example, its third age well developed and humming apace; a little murky of purpose, its lift with no lack of savory intent, its finish a tad abrupt, yet clinging to the palate with a sense of purpose. A little overstated, which is far from disagreeable. | 86

Andrew Jefford: Dark black-red, clear, shading to a garnet meniscus. Slightly rough-and-ready aromas, withatouch of brandy in there somewhere and the fruits slipped back to the third row of the grid. There are better Vintage Port aroma profiles than this one. Bottle 2 is largely similar. On the palate, the wine is gutsy and deep, a touch fiery, with brandy flavors infusing the fruits. I could certainly relish a glass or two of this, but it doesn’t meet the highest standards for classicism or purity. | 85

Richard Mayson: Mid-deep center, turning on the rim; a rather dirty-woody, spirity aroma, lacking charm. Similarly rather rustic on the palate, with an edge to it. Some tannin. And there is underlying elegance, but it falls away fast on the finish. Rather dried up and emasculated. | 76