Simon Field | Deep purple at the core. Nose of forest floor, peat, wild strawberry, loganberry and plum. Firm acidity; very ripe and concentrated; a powerful, robust example, with a herbal backdrop, plenty of vigor, and a long, expressive finish. For the moment, however, austerity is the watchword. | 90

Andrew Jefford | Another midnight-black wine with an episcopal rim. Warm and roundly fruity in aroma: enticing and inviting, but without the furious aromatic concentration, muddle and magnetism of the very best. Serene, full, spicy too and good. Dense, full, deep, and long, with lots of exuberantly rich fruits, savory depths and sweet, almost tarry succulent. A good choice for those who might want to tiptoe into this vintage early, as it is more accessible than many of its peers. | 91

Richard Mayson | Licorice-like richness on the nose, with more to give. Firm, ripe and leathery, sinewy-spicy tannins leading to a long, linear finish. Well defined but a bit bony and lacking flesh overall. | 89