The original and most powerful expression of Penfolds multi-vineyard, multi-district blending philosophy, Grange is arguably Australia’s most celebrated wine and is officially listed as a Heritage Icon of South Australia. Crafted utilizing fully-ripe, intensely-flavored and structured Shiraz grapes, the result is a unique Australian style that is now recognized as one of the most consistent of the world’s great wines. With an unbroken line of vintages from the experimental 1951, Grange clearly demonstrates the synergy between Shiraz and the soils and climates of South Australia.

The 2012 Penfolds Grange Syrah, hailing from South Australia, is a highly acclaimed wine that has garnered exceptional reviews from numerous wine critics. This vintage, produced by Penfolds, is a blend of 98% Shiraz and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, with an alcohol content of 14.5%. It is noted for its deep garnet-purple color and complex aromatic profile.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a near-perfect score of 99, praising its "earthy/meaty nose with notes of tree bark, dusty earth, underbrush, and chargrill," complemented by "dried mulberries and Christmas cake" aromas. She described it as "rich, medium to full-bodied and seductive," with "spicy layers and a long meaty/savory finish."

James Halliday, also rating it 99, remarked that this vintage was "destined to be one of the greatest Granges." He highlighted its "majestically complex, superbly focused and intense" character, noting that it possesses "every black fruit flavor known to man or woman" and will improve with age.

Jancis Robinson gave it a score of 96, noting its "very dark purple" color and "floral notes." She described it as "heady and powerful," with a "sweet but then cool" profile, and praised its "great depth" and "long and creamy" finish.

Wine Spectator's MaryAnn Worobiec awarded it a 97, calling it "powerful and impressive" with a "seamless expression" of flavors, including "chai tea, sandalwood, dark chocolate, gingerbread, and tobacco." She noted that it "gains momentum on the finish" and described it as "intense but polished."

James Suckling, also scoring it 97, highlighted its "complex aromas of coffee, berry, chocolate, and walnut," and praised its "full-body, juicy and deep fruit" and "polished, almost Teflon tannins."

Decanter rated it 98, describing it as a "deeply saturated ruby in color" with "immensely seductive aromatic quality." The wine features "aromas of smoked meats, coconut, and roasted coffee oak," leading to a "wonderful full-throttle, tongue-enveloping blackberry richness."

Vinous' Josh Raynolds, who also scored it 97, noted its "deep, shimmering ruby" color and "hugely complex bouquet" with "black and blue fruit, floral and exotic spice qualities." He praised its "strikingly long, focused finish" with "sneaky tannins and a touch of smokiness."

Finally, Wine & Spirits awarded it a 98, describing it as a "succulent vintage" with "fresh intensity" and "luscious elegance." The wine presents flavors ranging from "anise to blueberry skins and tart, fresh-picked blackberries," held together by a "silky abrasion" of tannins.

Overall, the 2012 Penfolds Grange Syrah is a highly esteemed wine with a rich, complex profile and an impressive aging potential, making it a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.