Nicolas Belfrage:Slightly lighter than the 1996, surprisingly. Delightful roseate aroma with some rosemary and thyme. Has the richness of 1997 on the palate but a good balancing phenolic structure with reasonable acidity. Finishes long; very well typed, 16.

Simon Larkin :Leathery, beef-stock aromas. The palate shows good freshness, quite supple and forward, with little by means of backing tannins or volume. There is a soft, silky texture that signals some refinement. A modestly elegant mid-weight offering, set to appeal in the short to medium term, 15