Medium colour. Rather focused aromas for a 2007, there’s a burst of dark red fruit, the darkness suggesting a little reduction, there is fine width though more limited depth. Slowly the nose becomes more and more forward. Riper and with slightly improved integration of tannin yet less energetic and extrovert than the Barthod. It is very fine, but I prefer the Barthod.

Medium-plus, cherry red with no fading. The nose bursts with red berries, raspberry and cherry set against a creamy background – lovely purity. The palate is intense and succulent, again showing mainly red fruit. The fine tannins show a dry edge. There is an oaky depth at first which makes the palate a little ‘muddy’, but this rights itself on aeration. Young but still fine.

Not deeply coloured – a ruby core gently fading to brown. High red tones – slightly cooked – against a mild-toast background. Not fat, but splendid fruit which again is a little cooked with currants coming through. There’s lovely length, I really like the depth and persistence of the fruit. The tannins are still quite astringent and are coupled with good acidity. Very, very good wine. Despite the relatively light colour, I’d personally leave this another 3+ years.