The 2015 Ashbourne comes from a single vineyard planted in 1996 at a high density and matured in 400-liter barrels and foudres. It has a potent bouquet with quite a strong medicinal scent percolating through the dense black fruit, the new oak neatly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin. I appreciate the backbone and focus here, slightly grainy in texture with cloves and sage towards the complex finish. 92 points

After a gap of five years, this is the follow on vintage to the 2010, now released at a younger age when its fruit flavours are more vibrant. With some spice from 10% whole bunches, it’s structured and scented, showing mulberry and wild strawberry sweetness. 91 points