Stephen Brook: Very deep red. Rich, brambly, blackberry nose, dark fruit but no Portiness, licorice. Russian River usually gives lighter, more elegant Zinfandels than the Dry Creek or Sonoma valleys, but not in this instance. This is bold and mouth-filling, with a touch of sweetness, though it’s not clear whether that sweetness derives from residual sugar or alcohol. Super-ripe, yet not that jammy; supple in texture for a young Zinfandel, with few overt tannins. Has moderate acidity, but it’s still fresh—yet this is an overripe California style that for Europeans walks a tightrope. Quite long, with a discernibly sweet finish 16.5

Alex Hunt: Aromatically, this shows a gorgeous depth of sleek blueberry fruit, with some herbal brightness to balance. The palate possesses classic Zin juiciness but brings more purity and finesse to the party than the majority. It is long and even in the mouth, with alcohol well in check and nicely judged acidity, too 17.5