Simon Field: Slightly murky colouring betrays a volatile nose; and spice above and beyond the call of duty. Rather clumsy vinous notes. On the palate, burnt, slightly overblown and perhaps past the point of no return in terms of structural integrity. Stylistically robust and powerful, but perhaps lacks the elegance of the best examples? 16

Andrew Jefford: Deep hued, both red and brick red in balance. Rather evanescent aromas: pretty but vague. Soft, pleasant, rounded; not dead but rather flaccid and comatose - puzzling. The colour suggests that there should be a little more life in here than there is. Not a bad wine, but I get the sense that it is beginning to shuffle off to oblivion. 14

Richard Mayson: Very good mid-ruby centre, thin tawny-pink rim. Seductive floral aromas: very elegant and fine. Likewise very elegant on the palate - fresh and vibrant - but the gentle fruit is shadowed by firm but graceful tannins with lovely firm length. Perfect now and over the next ten years plus. 17.5