Nicolas Belfrage: Classic nose of rose and Port. Good sweet fruit on the palate, with floral and fruit aromas coming through. Structure is firm, acids and tannins in place. As a 1997, balance and typicality are exemplary, though concentration is a bit lacking. 16

Simon Larkin : fine, scented red-fruit aromatics. The palate shows a silky textual component. There is noticeable grip here, the wine is well expressed, high-toned, with a pleasing sense of volume. The tannins are remarkably firm and hold the dusky red fruit in check. Of great stature and weight, the wines from this producer need time to gel fully-very assertive and masculine in their current state. This is built to last, an impenetrable effort as it stands, ideally warranting 10-15 years. 16