Tim Atkin: Mid-ruby/purple; reductive, almost Chilean nose. Ditto palate. Reductive, meaty, Maule notes. Highish acidity, old-fashioned style, nice freshness. Balanced, aromatic, with some mint. Good freshness and length. 16

Gerard Basset: Medium-deep inky color, with a purple rim; fairly open on the nose. Red-fruit and herbal notes. Relatively lean, but with ripe tannin. Medium finish. 14.5

Anthony Rose: Good color; slightly minty/spicy nose. Good red-fruit flavors, with cherry and a hint of rhubarb. Nicely evolved, juicy ripe-fruit quality, with succulently textured tannins and fresh savory acidity. All nicely balanced and very approachable now, but the savory Old World chewiness will not appeal to everyone. 16