SF | Deep colour, then a persuasive nose of fig, walnut and ( over) ripe myrtle; there is white pepper and chalk , with just a hint of soy too, the latter maybe presaging or even betraying signs of volatility which become more obvious on the palate. This threatens to jeopardise the entire structure and has the equally disarming effect of drying out the palate at the back of the mouth.... 88
AJ | Dark, dense black-red; very near opaque. Fresh, savoury, enticing: classic vivacious blackcurrant and close to a 'claretty' appeal aromatically. Clean and well-defined. Serious, dense, deep and satisfying: chunky, sober Dao with a lot left to give. Beautiful tannins; not messed up by oak; despite all the acidity and some bitterness there is fire and warmth (just) in the stony grind at the end. More secondary than most of its 2020 peers so it has set off down the evolutionary journey but there is lots in the knapsack and this sound buy will stand by you for most of decade.Drink Dates: 2024 - 2034. 92
RM | Very deep, nearly opaque in colour; attractive, ripe and in this context quite bold berry fruit aromas; quite full, firm savoury-berry fruit character on the palate with supple, well-integrated gravelly tannins on the finishDrink Dates: 2024 - 2034. 91