Rayne Vigneau 2003

Compared to a bottle tasted earlier the same morning, I notice a more petrol-like scent emerging, a touch of reduction that manifests a minty, almost leathery note. The palate is medium-bodied with mango and banana skin on the entry. It is missing a little acidity, although it musters more freshness toward the finish, with adequate if not extraordinary levels of botrytis. Drink now-2018.

Aromas of apples and dried pineapples follow through to a full-bodied palate, yet it's spicy and lively with a long, long finish. Very exciting. Lots of lemon curd and richness on the finish. Much better than from barrel. And better than the 2001. Best after 2010. 10,000 cases made.

Greenish gold. Green leafy nose but not the most intense. Great lift and balance. Lovely satin texture. Beautifully mannered. All pleasure though perhaps a bit evolved. I admit to being seduced by how delicious it is already. Long. Perhaps not especially subtle.

Scented nose of great finesse; notably elegant balance of richness and vigour; intensely sweet and luscious, but also beautifully contained and defined wine with clear mineral aromas behind the sweetness; effortlessly long, effortlessly balanced. Superb.