The 2016 Penfolds Grange is an exceptional Syrah with contributions from 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley, and Magill Estate in South Australia, this wine has garnered remarkable praise from various esteemed reviewers.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 98, describing it as "a tempestuous opera with a big cast." The review highlights the complex layers of fruity aromas and flavors, including blackberry, dark plum, aniseed, mocha, and licorice. The publication recommends mulling over its dense, dark berry profile and secondary flavors, noting its potential for aging until 2065.
James Suckling also rated the 2016 Grange at 98 points, noting its "very intense" character with aromas of black fruit, tar, coal-smoke, iodine, and black-olive. Suckling emphasizes the seamless delivery of blackberry and plum flavors, balanced by fresh, vibrant acidity. He advises that while the wine is enjoyable now, it will be even better after 2023.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate gave this vintage a near-perfect score of 99, praising its trademark lifted aromas with scents of vanilla, toasted coconut, cedar, raspberries, and blackberries. The review lauds its impressive concentration and full-bodied profile, predicting decades of aging potential. The publication suggests it is on par with notable vintages such as 2010 and 2012.
Wine Spectator also rated it highly at 97 points, describing it as a "dynamic and distinctive red" with flavors like dark chocolate-covered maraschino cherry, chai tea, white truffle, and roasted almond. The review mentions its dense, velvety tannins and harmonious finish, recommending consumption through 2045.
James Halliday awarded it another 99 points, appreciating the detailed blend of 97% Shiraz and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in new American hogsheads. Halliday highlights the balance of blackberry and plum with flashes of spice and licorice, noting its mouthwatering quality and fresh acidity.
Other notable reviews include Wine & Spirits at 95 points, emphasizing its textural bliss and complex flavors, and Wine Enthusiast at 97 points, commending its seamless integration of Italian plum, black cherry, mocha, and cigar box notes. Vinous also awarded it 98 points, praising its deep violet color, expansive aromas, and concentrated dark fruit flavors.
Overall, the 2016 Penfolds Grange is a highly regarded wine with an impressive array of flavors and significant aging potential.