SF | Raven-black at the core, only a whisper of pink-purple at the rim. A nose of embers, wild roses, and crushed berry, a hint of cigar wrapper, maybe, too. Quite reticent, conceding only with aeration a whiff of graphite and camphor, which does not lack for vigor. Structurally, this is leaner but maybe longer than its two compatriots, but no less rigorous (and vigorous) in terms of fundamental structure. Gothic rather than baroque, somewhat austere. 89
AR | Youthful in its ruby hue, this is starting to evolve in color now; it's invitingly aromatic, with cassis-like fruit combining nicely with vanilla oak; on tasting, there's an immediacy of dark-berry fruit etched with juicy acidity and a textural quality that's making this wine accessible young, even if it's still quite primary; youthful and fresh, it needs time for the elements to integrate, but should keep improving in bottle for a while to come. 92
DW | Opaque purple. Prettiness of fruit, fresh blackcurrants and mulberries. Again, a palate that leans toward leanness, with quite tight, sappy tannins and a hint of green asperity, a blackcurrant leafiness coming through alongside the currants on the finish. There's something appealing about this style, particularly if you are in the mood for classic Loire Cab Franc, but it is certainly lean in the context of global Cabernet Sauvignon. 89