The 2019 Capbern has improved since I tasted it just after bottling. Finally, it has developed a more elegant bouquet, mainly black fruit fused with cedar and undergrowth scents. It has mustered more classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with a strong graphite element on the entry, fine depth, quite fresh with a structured, gritty finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. 89 points

Powerful and impactful, and the alcohol although well balanced by fruit does have an impact on the texture and mouthfeel of this wine, which is gourmet and full of chocolate, damson and tar. High drama in this vintage. 60% new oak. A yield of 40hl/ha. 3.9pH. 92 points

Very deep purple-black in color, the 2019 Capbern explodes from the glass with notes of prunes, baked black cherries and fruitcake plus suggestions of mocha, Chinese five spice, tobacco leaf and cedar chest with a touch of peppercorns. Full-bodied, rich and voluptuous (15.1% alcohol!), the palate has a firm, chewy backbone and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. 89-91 points

Deep colour to the rim. Powerful, even burly with added muscle this year. Dense fruit with a raisined edge to the aroma. Palate rich, broad and packed with tannin. Hope the fruit will hold. Dry, firm finish. 16.5 points