I bought a case of this some years ago – decided to try one this evening for the first time. I have to say, I was a little disappointed. Now don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t bad, per se – just a little underwhelming. It had this sort of slightly musty, sour flavour that I recognise from old bordeaux (and Belgian sour beers) – and some sweet dark fruit, but somehow a little out of balance. Overall a little awkward and almost austere – lacking the plushness I was hoping for.

As one of my first true loves in wine, I’m a huge fan of this wine, but somehow the last couple of bottles I’ve opened haven’t had that wow factor that I recall from the best of the older vintages I’ve tasted – 2003 being the pick of the bunch as far as I can remember. I tried a bottle of the 2006 a few weeks back and it was less to my taste than the 2007. Much more savoury, a bit like hard work if I am honest. I remember what I paid for it though so I drank it all, obviously.