Simon Field: Deep in color, subtle translucence, and a gentle gloss. The nose is still reticent, its primary clarion receded, and softer forest murmurs in control, a little earthy, with woodsmoke in the background. The palate is less impressionistic, a darker Ribera mood taking over the ensemble, the tannins firmly in control and still unyielding, the spirit lifted yet acquiescent. Impressive length and a dignified, memorable finish. Powerful and potent. | 94

Andrew Jefford: Dark black-red, as dark as any at the core, shading to clear scarlet with the faintest hint of brick-red. Complex, earthy scents with plenty of root spice; harmonious and satisfying aromas, with plenty of dark allure still. Smooth, ample, full, spicy-meaty, as well as black-fruit-sweet; weighty on the tongue, even if it is barely tannic per se anymore. There is a fine effusion of dark tannin- spice flavors at the very end. Dense, powerful, serious, and a Port of larger contour than [the Fonseca 1994], even though [the Fonseca 1994] is unrivaled for gathered force. | 92

Richard Mayson: Mid-deep youthful color; demure on the nose, an underlying berry and floral character, withatouch of hedgerow; firm, tight-knit, with fruit and tannins taking time to emerge on the palate, the firm tannic grip lingers on the finish, hint of dark chocolate, with less in the way of fruit. Possibly this still needs time to emerge fully. | 92