Penfolds Grange 2005

`Penfolds Grange 2005 is a full-bodied Shiraz blend from the Penfolds Magill Estate near Adelaide, South Australia. Since its first vintage in 1951, Grange has become the most collectible Australian wine on the market. Typically blended with a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grange is renowned for richness, its aromatics and its extraordinary longevity. In operation since 1844 at the Magill Estate near Adelaide, Penfolds is the sine qua non of Australian wine. The winery team is led by the masterly winemaker Peter Gago. While it boasts a vast portfolio wines, Penfolds is exemplified by Grange, arguably the most iconic wine of any New World wine region. "Containing just a dollop of 4.1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2005 Grange is about 85%+ Barossa fruit with the remaining proportions coming from McLaren Vale and Coonawarra. It was aged for 18 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads. The nose begins a bit animal with some smoked game, mincemeat and bacon notes emerging over the freshly crushed, sun-warmed blackberries, black currant cordial, earth, black truffles, anise and allspice. Rich and full with very firm very fine tannins and very crisp acid, it gives a long finish layered with coffee, mincemeat and toast." Wine Advocate, 2010