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. Naturally, now no longer a ‘Trial’ RWT Shiraz was launched in May 2000 with the 1997 vintage. 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. 100% Shiraz
VINEYARD REGION Barossa Valley
MATURATION 17 months in French oak hogsheads (70% new and 30% 1-y.o.)
Tasting notes: Colour: Dark red with a purple core Nose: Ascending florals, primarily violet (laced with pepper) harmoniously project alongside wafts of white chocolate/cocoa powder. Fruitfully aromatic – easily identifiable red-currant and satsuma plum, with fleshy harder-to-reveal cranberry/ elderberry/mulberry. Scents of cedary French oak and pink peppercorn/spice artefact aligned with pan scrapings/balsamic – such a ‘glaze’ possibly derived from its Penfolds élevage/racking regimen? Palate: No overt barrel-ferment characters apparent. Perhaps swamped by depth of fruit (black cherry), mocha, chestnut, aniseed and other derivatives? A spoil of charcuterie delights, primarily cold meats (‘raw’/carpaccio), shadow the more reticent panforte and cola notes that ever so slowly appear with aeration. A textural leaning towards velour/satin – a veneered smoothness, rather than a plush or penetrating mouthfeel – allied by velvety, rather than grainy tannins. Unmistakably Shiraz / Barossa / French oak!
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