Deep red with good purple in the meniscus; it smells fresh and bright, dark fruits and spices with touches of new leather and tapenade, and the oak is not overt, a major improvement in this wine over the years. The wine is concentrated and powerful, with great depth of flavour and ample ripe tannins backing up. Long, long carry; fruit-sweet core. A smashing glass of red, with a long and rosy future—although I can also enjoy it right now. (Nick Waterman blend)