Sensory profile The visual introduction is deep, full, and intense, shot through with flashes of garnet-edged ruby that render the reflected light warm and appealing. The expanding bouquet displays spicy, subtly-toasty impressions suggesting tanned leather, vanilla, cocoa powder, and sandalwood, segueing gradually into a sensory centre of fully-ripe fruit which, in turn, drives the rich vein of aromatics along a stately, regal progression. Appearing along the way are plum and cherry preserves, infusions of fruit and summer flowers, hibiscus tea, and energy-giving almond and raisin. This noble charge of sensory richness continues into the mouth, with an explosive, thrusting minerality characteristic of the growing year, bolstered in its progression by a still-immature, thirst-quenching succulence. Framed by richly-aromatic fruit, warm shafts of alcohol cleanse the palate, followed by a sensation of crisp, dry toastiness that drives a pleasure-laden finish.

Pairings With its admirable fat-cleansing properties, this 2018 is the perfect partner to fatty, protein-rich dishes. Still youthful at this point, it will improve with a few months’ more bottle-ageing.