Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz 2008 750ml
The single vineyard Magill Estate Shiraz is intrinsically linked to Penfolds beginnings. Sourced from the original Magill vineyard (5.2 ha) on the edge of Adelaide's eastern suburbs (just eight kilometres from the city's CBD), fruit is crushed, fermented and matured on-site at the original Penfolds Magill winery, established in 1844.
First produced in 1983, Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz is an elegant, mediumweight style with velvety texture and fine tannins, matured in both French and American oak. It is a sleek, contemporary wine, yet crafted in the old fashioned way in the 150 year-old winery: hand-picked, vinified in open fermenters and then basket pressed.
Nose
Many "old winery" complexities - induced by Magill's openfermenters, basket-pressing, barrel fermentation... Savoury, pan-scrapings and a toasty/walnut barrel-ferment overlay. Stylish oak evident, respectfully subdued. Higher notes of sarsaparilla, green olive, blue ink and grated white chocolate. Distant florals.
Palate
Tight, with a pomegranate/cranberry grip/bite... yet there remains a welcoming fleshiness no doubt abetted by ample softened tannins. Fresh and bright red plum & nectarine fruits, Brazil nut to the fore, and a custard/creme brulee creaminess mid-palate. Medium-bodied, youthful, distinctive.
When to drink
2014 to 2032
Variety
Shiraz (100%)
Vintage
2008