AJ | Dark, dense black-red: still opaque at the core. Fresh, vivid blackcurrants and plums; some clove spice; almost a honeyed note, too. Expansive and ripe within the second-wine spectrum this year. Smooth, fresh and lively; extraordinarily accessible at this stage for a wine from this terroir. Ample svelte fruit with more flavour of tannin than texture of tannin; relatively low acidity for the vintage, and great tenderness in its fruit definition (melting plum rather than crunchy blackcurrant). At the same time, the fruit tone is fresh -- it is a 2021, after all. Delicious ... now. Drink Dates: 2026 - 2032. 89
SF | Generous of colour and aromatic intent, with violets, lavender, bitter chocolate and quince framing the more usual red and black fruit descriptors. The palte has pleasing concentration, a deft tannic weave which does not lack for authority and a pleasing purity on the palate, by turns refreshing and powerfully persuasive. The finish is relatively modest, but the overall impression does not fail to please, Drink Dates: 2029 - 2037. 90