Simon Field | Dense black-widow core, a very fragile rim. Nose majors on the herbal side; gum cistus, licorice and a hint of fennel. Very appealing. The palate closes down with rigor and austerity, ascetic, linear, dense, and plush. A patina of indulgence, but behind that a crescendo of tannic grip and an exhortation to the virtues of patience. | 94

Andrew Jefford | Saturated dense black-red in color with a purple rim, though less glass-clinging than some. Warm, full-fronted, almost toffee-draped fruits: rich and enticing, if straightforward and without the fresh allure of the best. Rounded, affable, and full flavored on the palate, with plenty of roaring summer warmth. Not tight-jawed or forbidding at the stage at all, but with enough in its knapsack to see out the mid-term. | 88

Richard Mayson | Still demure with dense, spicy, spirited fruit and depth underlying, needs time to emerge. Lovely, broad, fleshy fruit initially, with a backdrop of ripe, gripping tannins building to a big, bright, bold finish combining power and elegance in equal measure. Great poise. | 95