Simon Field | Deep ruby, a hint of magenta at the rim. A hint of reduction, dissipated with vigorous agitation, then scrub, fir trees, dry straw, and late-season figs; mocha and iodine, too. The fruit is more demonstrative on the palate: cherries, plums, and other delights from the allotment. Precise, somewhat sinewy tannins, a chalky subtext and an allusive evocation of seascapes and brine. Structurally, this rigor recalls the late-Gothic period; perpendicular even. Rather austere, but there can be attributable beauty in austerity, can there not? | 91

Andrew Jefford | Clear, dark black-red. Straightforward, clean, and warm aromas, with a little forest intrigue, but this is not a powerfully aromatic wine. After a while, it begins to smell of chestnuts, pine, and kerosene. Smooth, dry, and relatively linear on the palate, without a lot of wealth or amplitude, though it is certainly concentrated. A touch charmless. | 85

Anthony Rose | A youthful medium-ruby in color. This is a tad short in aroma. It tastes pleasant and soft enough initially, with some decent red-fruit flavor, but at this stage of its life, the extraction of tannins dominates in such a way as to render it rather chewy and dry, unyielding in fat—so either drink with very robust food, or give it a year or two to soften down. | 87