90 points Wine Spectator: "This has suave toast, mulled spice, roasted fig and crushed plum and blackberry flavors, all gliding along with silky structure through the finish. Drink now through 2018. (6/30/12)"

90 points James Suckling: "Aromas of black olives, sweet tobacco and dark fruits follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a delicately fruity finish. Balanced. Better in 2015. (2/14/12)"

4 stars/Highly Recommended, Decanter: "A pleasing nose of cinnamon, plum earth, spice, Port, blackberry and blackcurrant. Fairly rich, concentrated and dense, with enough acidity to keep it from being heavy. It has lots of oak, ripe tannins and a lingering length. Fine potential. Drink: From 2014. Alc: 15%. (May 2012)"