SF | Deep pigmentation, a nose of black tea, licorice and fennel; deep raspberry, spice and a chalky subtext, pashmina if not silk; aging gracefully therefore but far from bereft of the tactile austerity, which appears to mark out the best wiens of the region...the finish has an ethereal elegance. 92
AJ | Dark, black red; translucent Beginning to tire a little here; all the fresh fruits have gone but we haven't quite modulated to a post-fruit beatitude. Better than the nose suggested on the palate -- there is ample depth here. The problem really is the fruit definition and that sense of fatigue or lack of zest. But in terms of depth and structure this is very good wine, and to look on the bright side the fruit has a rooty depth and power. The 2018 vintage clearly outstanding in Dao.Drink Dates: 2024 - 2030. 90
RM | Mid-deep and still youthful in appearance; restrained (or a bit hollow on the nose?) with rather dusty but still fresh berry fruit underlying; reflected on the palate, light berry fruit with a rather lean and dusty character leading to an austere dry finish, lacking in fruit and finesse. Hard and unyielding.Drink Dates: 2024 - 2029. 86