Cocoa powder-dusted blackcurrants on the nose, some baking spices and a gentle smoked aroma too. Round and generous on the palate, the tannins so sleek and fine, delivering a fresh, cool blue fruit flavour with a wet stone texture that almost cleans the tongue in its distinction. This has a dark mid-palate, the black liquorice and touches of bitter dark chocolate giving it a serious nature, while the fruit is more redcurrant and red cherry in nature. Together with the acidity, it keeps the overall frame vibrant. So many aspects of Merlot coming through in this vintage. Lots of energy here with a touch of cinnamon and clove spice on the finish giving detail. This will need time to come around, the austerity poking through slightly but extremely well structured. Drinking Window: 2026-2048. Score - 93. (Georgina Hindle, decanter.com) Cocoa powder-dusted blackcurrants on the nose, some baking spices and a gentle smoked aroma too. Round and generous on the palate, the tannins so sleek and fine, delivering a fresh, cool blue fruit flavour with a wet stone texture that almost cleans the tongue in its distinction. This has a dark mid-palate, the black liquorice and touches of bitter dark chocolate giving it a serious nature, while the fruit is more redcurrant and red cherry in nature. Together with the acidity, it keeps the overall frame vibrant. So many aspects of Merlot coming through in this vintage. Lots of energy here with a touch of cinnamon and clove spice on the finish giving detail. This will need time to come around, the austerity poking through slightly but extremely well structured. Drinking Window: 2026-2048. Score - 93. (Georgina Hindle, decanter.com) 750 mL bottle