Simon Field | Ruby terra-cotta at the rim, strictly purple on the prow. A charming aroma of charcuterie, thyme, hearth-side, and ripe, oh so ripe, red fruits. Seductive from the outset, the joyful handover from primary to secondary characteristics in train, underwritten by the prospect of a glorious and classic vintage. The palate is maybe one step behind in this respect, still a touch foursquare, even a little volatile. Less overt than the nose suggested, a tad more rustic and unsure of itself... Let’s see! | 88

Andrew Jefford | Dark black-red, just opaque. Warm and complex, with ample garrigue and undergrowth aromas, rubbed spices, pounded stone: very commanding aromatic wealth and nuanced warmth. A real sense of the apothecary’s shop and the medieval herbalist’s storeroom to this. Deep, intense, searching, with ample tannic force and cascading herbal aromatics. There is some vivid acidity to the fruit, too. Vigorous, complete, allusive, and provocative, a Châteauneuf that I would age longer. Distinguished. | 92

David Williams | Delightfully pure macerated cherry on the nose—inviting, luxurious, decadently rich and creamy, with a hint of something more savory (like the animal note in an expensive perfume) emerging. Gloriously uninhibited, with a finish of exotic spice and the faintest but compelling hint of bitterness. | 93