Medium ruby-red. A nose that starts deep and surprisingly oaky given that there’s normally a maximum of 20% in this cellar – but it’s short-lived before fading into redder, layered fruit overlaid by higher toned alcoholic aspects, maybe even an edge of coffee. In the mouth it starts impressively; it’s well balanced, and shows a lovely, succulent, creamy red fruit. Time increases the depth but eventually dulls the excitement just a hint. It’s intense in the mid-palate and you never really think of the tannin before it slowly fades in the finish – still with that creamy edge. Poised, elegant and a first-class villages.

Deep cherry colour with purple edges. The nose has toasty oak still evident but behind there is a sweet fruit compote, more black than red plus a touch vanilla. Really excellent concentration of fruit on the palate, that seams to keep following the lingering acidity. The tannin is there but in the background. An above average ‘village’ wine from an excellent vintage, also great to drink right now.