Simon Field | Deep ruby, near opaque at the core. The nose is dominated by oak; crushed raspberry, damsons, and black pepper; pencil shavings and an unopened cigar box. Impressive cigars, I would think. Oak shrouds the palate, too, and it is difficult to assess today if this is a good or a bad thing. There seems to be a slightly hollow core today, but no lack of concentration, which could—or maybe should—reveal itself in the fullness of time. | 89

Andrew Jefford | Saturated, dark, near-opaque black-red. Sweet, vanillic-minty-oaky scents throw the shy fruits into a little shade. Sweetly and mint- oak over sheer black fruits. Perfectly sound wine, so long as you don’t mind the pronounced oaky sheen. | 86

Anthony Rose | Dark ruby-hued and primary. This smells of oak and very ripe, possibly overripe fruit, the oak, possibly American on the basis of a strong coconutty element that dominates at this stage. It’s a little less overt to taste but still strong and dominant enough to overwhelm the fruit, which is powerful and on the tannic, dry side. You can see the commercial appeal in a glass, but not much more. | 87