Jesús Barquín:Serious and balanced nose, slightly backward versus palate performance, where there is a bold display of blackberries, ripe plums, and spicy notes. Tannins are slightly more aggressive than in other wines of this vintage, which is, in general, surprisingly gentle tannin-wise. Great persistence, though the obvious alcoholic finish detracts. 15

Richard Mayson:Very deep, inky black color; withdrawn, intense, cassis and a touch of bitter chocolate but with a slightly leafy undertone; big, rich and powerful, with ripe tannins building in the mouth, not as broad as some but impressive nonetheless, focused, rapier-like tannins leading to a tight-knit finish. Compact, well defined, and very good. 18

Charles Metcalfe:Spicy, with notes of red fruit and white pepper. White-pepper character is strong on the palate, too. Tannins are firm but smooth, acidity is good, and fruit is more red than black. The finish is a little spirity, without great length. 14