Simon Field: Pleasing russet colouring and an agreeable perfumed nose, with gentle hints of volatility adding to the charm. Straightforward palate, plenty of ripe agreeable fruit, reasonable length evolving nicely and well balanced. Very agreeable now. 16

Andrew Jefford: Deep, with lots of red still vying for our attention. Quite evolved aromas (like a journey through the pine forest on a hot day) but lots of them, and there is still a palpable fruit presence in there, too. Fully evolved now, but like most of the '77 flight, it is pretty well endowed, with muscle still hanging to the bone structure. Lovely deep black-fruit compost at the end, leaving the mouth fruit-perfumed after you have swallowed. If you have this in your cellar, tuck in! 17.5

Richard Mayson: Good deep youthful centre, ruby pink rim. Very fine black-cherry fruit. Still young and vibrant with plenty more to give. Fine and firm vibrant fruit on the palate, with spicy tannins and bitter-chocolate intensity. Very well balanced, with tannins and fruit in harmony and a firm, fine finish. Impressive now - better in 3-5 years and drinking over the next 30 years plus. 18.5