Taster

Nose: Simply red – crunchy fruits (cranberry and redcurrants) and raspberry jelly. A floral streak of violets and a touch of thyme.

Palate: Velvety, dry and nutty – particularly macadamia nuts – with some dark chilli chocolate. Water brings out dried red fruit \r\nand chocolate caramel drops.

Finish: Hazelnuts and macadamia butter doused in crème pâtissière. This drifted off quicker than most.

Comment: Easy-going, pleasant to drink but not particularly memorable.

Score: 7.3

Taster

Nose: Striking mix of bright cherries and strawberries, with diesel dirtiness. Chinese plum sauce. Damson jam and chocolate. Whipped cream. Dried sultanas, dates and cranberries.

Palate: Dried sour cherries, cranberries, redcurrants, raspberries and blackberries. Cloves. Under that oily, earthy, dirty bass notes, musty, which balances the sweetness effectively.

Finish: Medium length, chewy, fruity, enduring heat from the wood.

Comment: Not afraid to show attitude. Fantastic to share with friends.

Score: 8.6