Penfold’s RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz 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.

Color 
Bright deepened red, iris-purple on rim

Nose
A fusion of preserved figs, black plum, blackberry and black liquorice flirts with an aromatic elution of fish oil, anchovy, soy and sesame/nori.
Nascent scents of toasted charred meats (rotisserie rib of beef?), rendered fat/marrow …
An uplifting freshness and higher notes are liberated with air – awakened scents akin to cola, Chinotto, aniseed, root beer.
Camouflaged (new!) oak has to be proactively sought out, verified.
Strikes a Grange stylistic bullseye, all boxes ticked.

Palate
A retronasal transfer of the aromatics listed above converge to similarly adorn the palate.
Full-bodied – turbo-propelled by a V.A./formic mix, affording attaque and grip, yet respectful of balance and style.
Custom-fitted with impressive density and length – all dark and black, harmonious.
Oak conceded – absorbed, compliant – effortlessly merging with blue and black fruits and dark chocolate/mocha notes.
Solid, malleable tannins, with an exacting acid coupling, serve to polish and elevate; no doubt soon to preserve.
Energetic, focussed. Much still to reveal …