Penfolds Grange 2019

Penfolds Grange 2019 is a full-bodied Shiraz blend from 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. Penfolds has been in operation at the Magill Estate near Adelaide since 1844 and has become a sine qua non of Australian wine. While it boasts a vast portfolio wines, the pinnacle of its output is Grange, which is arguably the most iconic wine of any New World wine region. "It`s a hard act to follow the monumental 2018 Grange, which – priced at AU$1000 for the first time on release – earned a slew of perfect scores. Chief winemaker Peter Gago regards the 1989, 1999 and 2009 as `sleeper vintages` so urges against any rash prejudgement on this 2019. Sure, it is not as showy as the 2018 was on release, but if it is anything like the 1999 when it hits its stride in 20 years` time, then patience will be rewarded. The imposing structure, concentration and sheen of new American oak remains the trademark style, but the most powerful wine in the Penfolds stable – officially Bin 95 – is nevertheless becoming increasingly more approachable in recent vintages, and this 2019 is no exception (although approachable remains a relative term for a wine with 40 to 50 years ahead of it). Initial high-toned aromas of chinotto and kirsch lead to spicy liquorice, cedar freshness and more savoury, earthy tones. The palate is mighty. bold, chewy espresso oak char overlaying ripe black berries, plum pudding, rosemary, cured meat and balancing acidity. A blend of Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra and Clare Valley fruit, aged 19 months in new American oak hogsheads." Decanter, 2023