Penfolds Special Shiraz 2024

96 POINTS

Andrew Caillard MW - The Vintage Journal

The release of the delicious 2024 Penfolds Special Shiraz, a commemorative bottling to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Grange, will no doubt stimulate plenty of interest and debate among those who follow the Penfolds story. The wine is essentially an homage to Grange without being Grange, an unusual yet imaginative way of celebrating a significant milestone. But despite the reverential touch points that surrounds this release, the wine does deliver the Penfolds red wine experience in spades. For aspirational buyers, the soupçon of Grange real estate in the blend will resonate. But ultimately this is a classic Penfolds red wine, that shows the loveliness and buoyancy of shiraz, while highlighting the genius of multi-regional sourcing and blending. Deep crimson. Fresh black cherry, dark chocolate, chinotto aromas with roasted walnut notes. Well concentrated black cherry pastille, blackberry, praline flavours, fine chocolaty/ gravelly textures, very good mid palate volume and underlying roasted walnut, hint marzipan notes. Finishes chocolaty/ velvety and long. A classical Penfolds release with ample dark berry fruits, lovely volume and generosity.12 months maturation in 17% new American and 83% seasoned French oak hogsheads. Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley, Padthaway, Wrattonbully 14.5% alc Drink now – 2038+

94 POINTS

Angus Hughson - Winepilot

The 2024 Special Shiraz is made with South Australian fruit and more than a splash of Grange from the same vintage. It’s quite a unique release, with the mix of American oak matured Grange and adding to the overall impression. There is a strong opening salvo of blackberry, dried sage and pepper with a toasty oak frame. Excellent density of flavour and tannins to follow, well composed and balanced, with a drying cocoa finish. A little closed but plenty of class on display with a good 10-15 year drinking window.

94 POINTS

Angus Hughson - Winepilot

The 2024 Special Shiraz is made with South Australian fruit and more than a splash of Grange from the same vintage. It’s quite a unique release, with the mix of American oak matured Grange and adding to the overall impression. There is a strong opening salvo of blackberry, dried sage and pepper with a toasty oak frame. Excellent density of flavour and tannins to follow, well composed and balanced, with a drying cocoa finish. A little closed but plenty of class on display with a good 10-15 year drinking window.