In the realm of Australian wines, the name Penfolds is synonymous with excellence, and the 2014 Penfolds Grange offers a testament to that reputation. Hailing from the esteemed viticultural region of South Australia, this Syrah is a masterclass of what the varietal can achieve in the hands of skilled winemakers.
The 2014 vintage has been celebrated by critics and connoisseurs alike, scoring consistently high ratings. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator both awarded the 2014 Penfolds Grange a remarkable 98 points. The wine, as described by Wine Advocate, is "rich, concentrated and intense." It is full-bodied, enveloping the palate with a velvety feel and loaded with plummy fruit, framed in vanilla and cedar. An indulgent wine, it demonstrates both power and elegance, promising longevity even by Grange standards.
The Wine Spectator review encapsulates the wine's lavish complexity, noting "gobs of creamy, milk chocolate–laden maraschino cherry, raspberry framboise and Earl Grey tea aromas," with a myriad of other nuanced flavors coming in wave after wave.
The wine is a beautiful red, with 14.5% alcohol content, and is sealed with a traditional cork. The blend is predominantly Shiraz (98%), with a touch (2%) of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged in new American oak hogsheads for 20 months, contributing to its depth and richness.
The 2014 Penfolds Grange is an iconic wine, representative not only of its producer but of the power and potential of Australian winemaking. It is a wine to be savored and celebrated, one that will undoubtedly continue to develop and impress in the years to come. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, the 2014 Penfolds Grange is a wine experience to remember.