Alex Hunt: Dark, brooding nose; closed but quite promising. The palate is neat and nicely fleshy upfront, before tightening up to tannin and rock flavors on the finish. Barely approachable now, this should be refined and interesting in a few years’ time. 89

Andrew Jefford: Saturated black-purple; opaque. A touch reductive when first assayed; broodingly good. Needs decanting if drunk young; better still, time. Rich, deep, spicy, lush, and exuberant on the palate, with plenty of smoky-lively Rhône character in a slightly raw and rasping style. Very good wine but not quite sumptuous enough all the way through to be great. 88

Peter Liem: The flavors of boysenberry and marionberry are exuberant and ripe, with a juicy depth and vibrant presence. They’re supported by a firm structure, providing length and liveliness on the finish. 89