2019 Penfolds Grange

Cohesion, vigour, sheen, poise. Fresh and balanced. Neither exaggerated nor over-ripe – lively blueberry and other youthful blue/black fruits bely the maturation timeline of this alluring blend. Certainly befitting this style, unmistakable barrel-ferment characters are undoubtedly more pronounced on palate than nose. If the mid-palate is somewhat formidable (ably supporting a thick/dense core), by contrast the back-palate is creamy and caressingly endearing. Expansive and full – washing away all ahead of it. Texturally, chewy/grainy tannins and just-right acidity. All CV mandates of this 2019 Grange vintage are now accredited.

GRAPE VARIETY Shiraz (97%), Cabernet Sauvignon (3%) VINEYARD REGION Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Clare Valley WINE ANALYSIS Alc/Vol: 14.5%, Acidity: 7.0 g/L, pH: 3.62 MATURATION 19 months in American oak hogsheads (100% new) VINTAGE CONDITIONS The Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale regions both recorded well below long-term average winter rainfall. In the 12 months to March, the Barossa Valley had only 61% of the long-term average rainfall. Conversely, the vineyards in Coonawarra enjoyed 22% aboveaverage winter rainfall, providing the vines with excellent moisture profiles leading into spring. September temperatures were cool with little rainfall, resulting in some isolated frost events. Summer was generally hot, with high temperatures delaying veraison. The Barossa Valley experienced 31 days of temperatures >35°C while McLaren Vale experienced 25 days (from December to March). Irrigation was crucial to keep vines in good health. This warm and dry pattern also applied in the Clare Valley with only one significant rain event (30mm) in early December. The proximity of the Southern Ocean played an important role in moderating temperatures in Coonawarra, allowing for a high-quality harvest, albeit with a smaller crop than average. Although yields were down in all regions, the quality was outstanding with shiraz showing excellent colours, firm tannin profiles and intense flavours.