Stephen Brook | Deep red with no sign of evolution. Sweet, intense, cherry-pie nose, with a dash of mint. Lean and zesty, still fresh and nimble, though the tannins are still very present and intense, with some mocha tones, too. It’s a tad severe and dry on the finish, which is at odds with the wine’s sucrosity. Interesting and characterful, yet not harmonious. Quite long. | 89

Alex Hunt | Quite mature, leathery, slightly volatile nose; appealing in an old-Châteauneuf sort of way. The palate follows suit, although with brighter acidity than you might expect. It’s concentrated, thick, full, and savory, with a certain chewiness, meaty and satisfying. While I am surprised by this degree of development at only six years old, there feels nothing rushed or disjointed here. It’s a super-full-bodied wine that really works. | 93

Andrew Jefford | Dark black-red; just opaque still. Sweet, composty, earthy; a fine aromatic profile in which the red and black berry fruits are now in retreat, while the forest whispers and ethereal vanillins are beginning to take over the relay. To be confirmed as I taste, but this smells as if it is just getting into its secondary stride. It’s not hugely rich or full-textured on the palate, and the acidity is in the driving seat, but there is still plenty of high- quality fruit here, and the wine has an energy that commands. There are tannins, too. It’s the mid-palate wealth that is slightly recessive compared to others, but this might be a function of site. Very good Zin in early maturity. Tarry notes behind the lively, athletic blackberry to finish. | 89