Penfolds RWT Shiraz (2019)

Penfolds RWT Shiraz was released after several years of red wine making trials (thus the name RWT – Red Wine-making Trials) this was a result of demand for 100 per cent Barossa Shiraz back in the 90’s.

Launched in May 2000 with the 1997 vintage, it’s obviously no longer a trial! Penfolds wines are built for longevity and this wine is no exception, you will be rewarded with patience. As you’d expect it’s received some mighty scores from the cream of the crop of Aussie critics…

98/100 & Top Rank (Huon Hooke, The Real Review)
“Very deep red/purple colour. Profound aromas of roasted nuts, smoked meats, graphite earthiness, iron-stoniness, tar, a hint of blackberry jam. The palate is very full-bodied and broad, a wide-bodied wine with masses of tannins that coat the entire palate. An exotic, decadent wine with hints of surmaturité, opulent to its very long finish. There’s more grip, grunt and rusticity than the Magill, but it’s just as good in its way. It’s a great foil and contrast for the Magill. (18 months in French oak hogsheads, 57% new, 43% one year old)”

95/100 (Tyson Stelzer, James Halliday’s Wine Companion)
“Matured 18 months in 57% new French oak hogsheads. A strong and robust Bin 798 of grand black-fruit impact, framed boldly in French oak tannins of enduring structure. Spicy black fruits of all kinds meet licorice and dark chocolate. Mouth-embracing tannin impact declares both the mood of the drought season and confidently deployed barrels, making for a vintage that commands a long spell in the cellar. Great line and length seal its future.”

This is a great alternative (price wise) to Penfolds Grange. The grapes for RWT are sourced entirely from the Barossa Valley while Grange is a multi-regional blend. Highly collectable with serious cellaring potential – up to 2046!