Simon Field | Dense deepest purple, softening a little at the rim. Delightful aromatic of violets, plum, and licorice, plus a hint of peat, elegant, forward, and resourceful. In the mouth, the elegance once more stands out, rare in a wine so young. Pepper, spice, and a hint of nutmeg in support of the fruit-bed in the centre of the garden. A sweet- sour texture, the architecture has only just had the scaffolding removed; the freedom has been hard won and will now flourish over the medium term. | 90

Andrew Jefford | Deep, dark purple-red, with slightly smoky fruits. A dryness of aroma, which you wouldn’t hope to see at this stage, though this Port’s herbal refinement is attractive, too. On the palate, this is an impressively deep and driving Port event though its expressive range is narrower than some. No more dryness and few herbal notes; in their place very pure, almost Gothic blackcurrant, with tight-drawn tannins and extracts. An excellent palate, in sum, and with more attractive aromas (which may come with time), this wine might merit a higher score. | 89

Richard Mayson | Still demure on the nose, with underlying depth and concentration still to emerge. Broad and fleshy, with ripe, muscular tannins building in the mouth, leading to a big, bold, spicy, chewy-leathery finish with freshness reemerging. All there; should be a good long- distance runner. | 94