Oz Clarke: A hint of rubber on the nose, but the palate is more dominated by tannin. Fairly powerful, reasonably rich though slightly baked fruit, but the tannic bitterness still muscles through and spoils the final effect. 14

Alex Hunt: The typical black-fruit aromas are here, plus something metallic or oily, like an engine. Hint of yellow pepper – overall, complex and intriguing. This is a very tannic style, but it doesn’t feel forced. The quality of tannins is good and lends an attractive severity to the rich fruit. 16.5

Margaret Rand: Figgy nose and ripe, figgy palate. Nice sooty notes, soft tannins, firm and substantial structure, a weighty, foursquare finish and not enormous length. It’s good but not outstanding. Very polished but without the length or complexity that would make it first-rate. 16