Penfolds RWT Shiraz 2017 750ml
Penfolds RWT Shiraz presents an admirable alternative to the multi-regional sourcing and American oak maturation that are hallmarks of Grange, expressing instead, single-region Barossa Valley Shiraz matured only in French oak.
Its style is opulent and fleshy, contrasting with Grange, which is more muscular and assertive. RWT is made from fruit primarily selected for its aromatic qualities and fine texture. The result is a wine that helps to redefine Barossa Shiraz at the highest quality level.
When to drink
Continue cellaring. Peak drinking window Now - 2037.
Nose
Vibrant. Red earth / ’Barossa dirt’ regional cues not hindered by a 15-month sojourn in French oak.
Initially, a lift of trademark tar/bitumen and subtle V.A. ... above scents of assorted carpaccio meats, steak tartare, green olive, capers, rosemary.
Upon sitting/swirling, patisserie scents of almond croissant, cinnamon bun ... and perhaps crème brûlée glaze (oak-derived?).
To repeat, very Barossa!Tasting Notes
A firm and binding structure, medium-bodied. Focussed/defined, yet still generous.
Mouth-watering acidity clutching opulent fruits renders an impressive pathway cleaved across front/middle/back palate ... a pathway all ably assisted by chalky tannins and absorbed integrated oak.
Currently youthful and energetic, yet this vintage already impatiently awaits its secondary and tertiary maturation phases.
Tension.
In the interim, partake.