Andrew Jefford: Dark, black-purple in hue though translucent. Attractive if rather simple, almost toffeeish black-cherry scents. The first wine (of four) among its peers to have some overt sweetness of scent. Textured and vivacious on the palate, with ample fruit, and those fruits are almost brambly now rather than black-cherry-like. Blind, who would place this wine in Sancerre? Astonishing ripeness and generosity, though the vivid acidity and tannin are still northern French, so it is perhaps a reflection of the vintage rather than of winemaking ambitions. The palate is more complex than the aromas suggest. Solid and chunky, but excellent withal. | 89

Jasper Morris: Bright even purple, with some density of dark fruit, plums and raspberries, this fills the mouth in a most engaging way, with good acidity behind and fully resolved tannins. There is a little bit of oak in the background but it has been well judged and integrates nicely. There is no reason not to start enjoying this wine now, but I would like to see it again in two to three years to see if it evolves gracefully or becomes a little bit stewed. The bouquet is evolving faster than I would like. | 87

Catherine Petrie: Deep ruby. Intensely perfumed with dark, brambly flavors. The aroma recalls cassis and Morello cherries. This is a big, bold style of Pinot, with plenty of upfront fruit. But I fear as the wine develops in the glass, the black fruit tends toward a slight oxidation. The palate is dominated by large, muscular tannins, which give it a coarsness. These clearly need a little time to mellow, but I wonder if the fruit will stay the course? Perhaps the oak has been applied with a little too much enthusiasm. | 81