The original and most powerful expression of Penfolds multi-vineyard, multi-district blending philosophy, Grange is arguably Australia’s most celebrated wine and is officially listed as a Heritage Icon of South Australia. Crafted utilising fully-ripe, intensely-flavoured and structured shiraz grapes, the result is a unique Australian style that is now recognised as one of the most consistent of the world’s great wines. With an unbroken line of vintages from the experimental 1951, Grange clearly demonstrates the synergy between shiraz and the soils and climates of South Australia. This release in 2021 commemorates the 70th anniversary since Grange was first made.
Drinking Window: 2012-2050
Blend: 99% Syrah & 1% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vineyard Notes: Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale
Vintage Notes
Regular winter rainfalls ensured ideal soil moisture levels and healthy vine growth. Spring and summer temperatures were amongst the lowest on record, which reduced yield potential, as well as slowing overall crop ripening to a crawl. A warm, dry autumn eventuated, which, combined with careful vineyard management, enabled the grapes to reach ideal ripeness.
Ageing: This wine was aged for 15 months in new American oak hogsheads.
Critic tasting note: "The bulk of this year's Grange is from Barossa, with the remainder coming from McLaren Vale. It starts off with scents of maple syrup and lightly caramelized blackberries, plums and a hint of mocha, while on the palate it turns rich and creamy in texture with the bold fruit underscored by vanilla. There's plenty of power here, but it's restrained and tight. Give it until 2015 or so, after which it should last two decades or more." - 95/100, Wine Enthusiast