A ripe yet quite fresh nose features notes of poached plum, dark cherry and plenty of softly spiced earth character. There is outstanding density and power to the broad-shouldered, serious and well-muscled flavours that are presently very tightly wound through the highly persistent finish is less austere than usual. This is clearly constructed to last for decades though it's not so backward that it couldn't provide enjoyment young. Moreover, while this is ripe, it is much less marked by the style of the vintage than many of the wines in the range. In a word, excellent.