The 2017 Grand Mayne has quite a powerful, voluminous bouquet with red berry fruit, smoke and truffle aromas, not quite delivering the same level of delineation as the previous vintage but still nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannin, clean and precise with a fine bead of acidity. It is a lighter style of Grand Mayne compared to the wines of ten years ago, more nimble on its feet. The finish is lively, uncomplicated and quite mineral-driven, completing what is a fine follow-up to the 2016, though this will drink earlier. 90-92 points

Cloves and tar dominate on the attack, which works well within the vintage framework, but the oak is bit of a prop, meaning that the weight through the mid-palate acts as an anchor rather than propelling you along. There`s no doubt that there are some good elements here, and it`s a wine that has the potential to unfurl, but be aware that it is struggling a little to find its balance at present. 89 points

Dark cherry colour. Ripe, spicy dark fruit. The nose promises much but on the palate it is rather chewy and pretty dry on the finish. 15 points

The 2017 Grand Mayne is deep garnet-purple in color and offers up notions of cassis, red currant jelly and plum preserves with hints of cigar box and incense. Medium to full-bodied, it has a solid backbone of firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. 89-91+ points