Simon Field | Dense color, regal and uncompromising; oaky and still youthful despite its age. On the palate, the oak is still somewhat in the ascendant, the dark fruit character struggling a little in the light of the oaky backdrop. Powerful and drinking well, for all that, and not for the faint-hearted. | 88

Andrew Jefford | Dark yet translucent. Complex and enticing, with very “Clare Valley” aromas—that semi- smoky note that you also find in the Rieslings. This lends a dignity and complexity to the sweet plum fruits. The age has brought dividends here. Dense, close-grained, and pungent, with lots of crisply defined sloe and woodland plum, and even a little blackcurrant. Bright acidity and modest tannins make for a vivid, lively, searching palate. Bright and outstanding Clare Valley Grenache, aging superbly. | 92

David Williams | Some age and some oak—but difficult to love. Again, rather mechanistic and tough. | 85