December 12, 2021 - It’s been a long time since Penfolds hasn’t traded on its name, however this is a great example of why they have the name they do!
Well integrated tannins, generous refined fruit (med) and a length that is not found in wines at its original purchase price point (noting I bought it many years ago for $25 and current pricing is $50!!).
The years in the cellar were well worth it and it temps me to open some of the other Penfolds bottles (Bin 28, 128, 407, St Henri, 389 and Grange).. that being said this was drinking at its peak and I only see risk (and no upside) from keeping it any longer.
Today this would be good value at $35. At $50, you aren’t being ripped off, but it isn’t a bargain and there are other more compelling options!
July 6, 2018 - Lots of burnt notes, red fruits and some chocolate. Nice tannins and a well balanced amount of alcohol to match and a lovely long finish. Really nice wine for most any barbeque night with good friends!
March 3, 2017 - Deep garnet colour. The nose shows pronounced intensity aromas of vanilla, coconut, chocolate, ripe red plums, ripe dark cherries and hints of truffle.
It is dry in the mouth with a medium acidity. It has medium+ supple tannins and a high warm alcohol. It is full-bodied with pronounced intensity flavours. The finish is long.
It is a very good quality wine. It has a lingering finish and a remarkable fruit concentration. It shows complexity provided by oak ageing, but not enough to consider it outstanding, it would benefit from a bit more of acidity as well.
December 10, 2016 - Big and juicy, lots of oak and a hot chewy finish. In Reykjavik. Up front and unabashed, fun for a one night stand, but not built to last.
July 31, 2015 - Dark plum, cofee beans, chocolate and earthiness. Long finish with good structure and lingering spicyness .Very good for the bbq evening!
June 24, 2015 - Popped and poured. Bouquet of cherry, milk chocolate, forest floor and spice. Plum, cherry, raspberry, espresso and chalky mineral on the palate with good persistence. Full bodied with a dense, chewy texture. Terroir expressive. Paired with grilled pork chops.
June 20, 2015 - Dark fruit and peppery spice. Full bodied and smooth. Nice Aussie Rhone blend.
February 8, 2015 - Had with smoked rib sandwiches and other BBQ accoutrements. Held up excellently to the ribs. Great value.
December 19, 2014 - This was great wine with a good qpr. Smooth but still dark and deep on color and notes; not overly peppery or strong. It was perfectly paired with our slow cooked roast dinner, on a December night. Will buy it again for sure.
November 13, 2014 - So smooth. Loved it!