Simon Field: Dense, impressive colouring, with the thinnest of rims. Youthful but intriguing bouquet, a potpourri with a spicy, slightly leafy backdrop. On the palate, it is unexpectedly fiery, with an almost aniseed note that overwhelms the structure and undermines the subtlety presaged by the nose. Unusual notes in both senses, more often attached to an Australian Shiraz, that leave this taster slightly bemused. 15.5

Andrew Jefford: Super-impressive appearance: real saturated depths. Lots of black still, clutching on to its opacity with commendable avarice. Lovely pepper and blackcurrant scents, still very youthful, vivid and exuberant. Some violet perfume behind. A gorgeous, youthful Port with loads of black fruits aboard, ageing at the speed of coastal erosion. Kudos, as they say, to its creator. This has at least another 15 years ahead and seems likely to hold at this super-attractive state of broad-fruited pleasure for at least seven or eight years. It is not hugely driving or insistent, but climb on board the pleasure boat... I don't know whether we have just caught them at the perfect moment, but even on retasting, and much against every expectation, I find myself giving this wine a mark to equal the best 1970 and 1977, and it’s the second 1980 to do so. Meanwhile, look at the aggregate score of this vintage. It is surely hugely underrated. 18.5

Richard Mayson: Very deep opaque colour, remarkably youthful, with a purple rim. Ripe, voluptuous fruit on the nose, very similar in style to the Smith Woodhouse. Again ripe and voluptuous, with the fruit supported by ripe tannins. Good breadth of flavour with wonderfully ripe length. Still vibrant and very impressive now and over the next 20 years. 17.5