Taster

Nose: Rich and earthy, right back in to winter and warm fires and hot chocolate. Tweed bolts and woollen jumpers. Chocolate dates and mince pie mix – heavy on the sherry. Toasted hazelnuts and walnuts.

Palate: Plump sultanas, dark chocolate and chilli with mince pie mix. Rich, dark fruits. Mulled wine edge – big red wine and cinnamon spice.

Finish: Ricotta cheese and fresh plums, there is a very gentle hint of smoke at the end.

Comment: Quite a stunner. One to keep in the cabinet until the weather turns a little colder, but great stuff.

Score: 8.5

Taster

Nose: Boom, really in your face – it's up-front and quite impressive. Rich, sherry notes, deep ripe fruits and hints of spice. Can't wait to get stuck into this one!

Palate: Sweet, warming notes, raisins, red berries and currants. Citrus peels. There's a savoury warmth in loitering in the wings too. Toasted nuts. How much sweetness can you handle? Oak spice comes through right at the end and grips.

Finish: Oak before the fruitness is dialled down and lingers.

Comment: A touch too sweet for me, but a treat all the same.

Score: 8.3