Simon Field: Tight acidic structure, quite enigmatic because there is ripe and expressive fruit, but it seems trapped within an overpowering framework and is, accordingly, difficult to evaluate fully. Quite spirity, feisty and robust, without the real authority of greatness. 15.5

Andrew Jefford: Sound black-red. Quite a meaty, spicy style: pleasing but not sublime. Vivid, full, tangy, with plenty of pleasant baked fruit and some peppery depth to give it a bit more staying power. Aromatic, peppery blackcurrant. Texturally impressive. Just lacks that skeletal grip to draw it all together and give it truly enduring impact, but this is pretty soundly constructed. 16

Richard Mayson: Deep opaque centre, thin crimson-purple rim. Closed, with underlying richness and intensity. Lovely broad, fleshy fruit initially with tight, firm tannins rising in the mouth. Not big, but powerful and impressive with wonderful intensity lingering on the finish. Drink 2010-2030 plus. 17.5