Medium ruby-red colour. The nose starts with prominent stalky smoke, slowly becoming more subtle. With time the nose tightens but still shows a faintly cream-tinged red-fruit jam. Nice texture though the acidity is obviously low. The fruit is ripe and sweet, though only a medium length finish. well-made with a lovely nose that currently overshadows the palate.

Medium cherry red, shading just a little to amber at the rim. The nose shows dusty red, high-toned fruit – interesting and complex – but I’m never a fan of the ‘dusty’ nose. Some tannin and excellent acidity. The palate mirrors the nose with high toned red fruit and shows a sneaky, creamy length. Interesting and balanced, but from these two the 1998 is one to buy.