AJ | Dark black-red though not opaque; translucent garnet meniscus. This has quite a grassy nose. Some blackcurrant beneath, but you have to search. Rather slender, sharp and bitter. Not a great success, in truth. I hope this is to the benefit of the Grand Vin. Drink Dates: 2026 - 2028. 81
SF | Midnight back, with only the narrowest of rims. The aromatic is a little clumsy, recalling nutmeg and sawdust over pure fruit. The latter is evidenced en bouche but only as a sop to a gentle structure, so designed to ensure easy drinkability over and above the workings of any intellectual rigour. Drink Dates: 2026 - 2029. 86