88 / 100
The oak tannins give this a firm edge against the sweeter fruit: prunes lead into blackberries and blackcurrants, with coffee and chocolate adding a darker thread. That contrast is what makes the character appealing to me; it sounds concentrated without losing its fruit. The nose also has a savory turn, while the added-water notes bring in old Spanish ham and aged white Madeira. A richly layered set of notes, though the tannic side may matter as much as the sweetness.
Reviewed by sunbeamwren
- Nose
- Chocolate, Cigar box, Leather, Fudge, Parma violets, Coffee and walnuts, Old Spanish ham and aged white Madeira when water is added
- Palate
- Concentrated, Oak tannins, Prunes, English brown sauce, Richer coffee, chocolate, blackberries, and blackcurrants with water
- Finish
- Long, Clean, Fruity and jammy, Lingering blackberries