Cinnamon spice on the nose, with a patisserie edge to the fruits that gives a rich, creamy impression. As ever with the Palmer stable of wines, you can pick out the individual flavours clearly, with careful and precise delineation of cassis, bilberry, slate and tobacco notes, but overall this is an outstanding Alter Ego that puts the emphasis on pleasure. Tannins are extremely precise but feathery and pliable. An extremely low 37ppm of SO2 at this stage, in keeping with biodynamic principles and a desire to let the fruit speak. 3.62ph. 45hl/h yield, 45% of overall production in Alter Ego. 94 points

Vigorous, fresh and expressive – just so much life! Floral aroma with a savoury edge. Smooth attack then generous fruit across the palate, the texture silky and fine. Lifted and vivacious. Tannins so fine you almost forget them. Approachable but could surprise with age. 17+ points