Simon Field | Purple robe, a hint of garnet at the rim overlaying the pink. Smoke, a hint of sap, lavender, camphor, and ripe raspberry. The palate is layered, albeit geologically broad and massive in scope; not much room here for subtlety. A blanket of flavor; hard at times to discern the minutiae of detail and to assess the potential to develop. The power seems most persuasive at the front of the palate, the tailcoats having, it seems, been spared the effort of the most careful upholstery. | 87

Andrew Jefford | Dark, deep black-red, just off opaque. Warm, fine-milled, and gently expressive aromas of fresh plum, tea, and woodland copse. Vivid and mouth-filling on the palate, with ample (though not punishing or undrinkable) depth and drive. Very well-managed, elegant, yet generous Cahors in true, singing style, undeformed by oak and with a freshness and bubbling energy to it that carries right into the finish. | 91

Anthony Rose | Youthful ruby in color. This is attractively scented, a hint of vanilla oak combining well with the fruit, which is ripe and attractively juicy. Supple in texture and supported by well-rounded oak and a lively streak of fresh acidity. Still youthful, with plenty of energy to allow it to continue on a three-to-five-year journey of enjoyable drinking. | 89