Simon Field | Dense, obsidian, inscrutable; nose is youthful (to say the least), unformed, and far from devoid of potential. There is fruit; behind it woodsmoke, incense, and cocoa, licorice maybe—all appealing, as only very fine fortified wine can appeal. To prejudge its evolution is almost presumptuous, but the pedigree is there, and there is power on the finish, a touch of salinity (almost) also evidenced. Nothing if not complex, in other words. And this is a complex category, for sure... | 92

Andrew Jefford | Dense, dark black-red to a purple rim. Sweet and warm, with some raisin and fig sweetness as well as fresher blackcurrant and plum. There’s vanilla and cream, too, in this complex aromatic profile. Exuberant, full and extractive on the palate, with ample power and depth. Very assured and broad-chested, and about much more than fruit: stone, sunlight, and plant matter play their role, too. Another wondrous 2017. | 95

Richard Mayson | Semi-open with underlying opulence on the nose. Firm and dense, with tight-knit berry fruit and firm spicy tannins rising in the mouth and lingering on a long bittersweet finish, which shows lovely freshness and definition. | 90