The 2018 Penfolds Grange is a notable Syrah from South Australia, produced by the esteemed winery Penfolds. This wine has garnered significant acclaim from various wine reviewers, each highlighting unique aspects of its character and potential.
Decanter rated this vintage a 95, noting its "open-hearted approachability" and "smooth, silky palate." The review emphasizes the balance achieved through a "sleek acid line" that complements robust flavors of spice, aniseed, sage, blackberry, redcurrant, and earthy notes. The review concludes that this Grange is "surprisingly well behaved" and retails at A$1,000 per bottle.
James Suckling gave the 2018 Grange a perfect score of 100, praising its "sheer power" and "compelling prowess." He describes the wine as "uncompromising," featuring rich blackberries, plums, blackcurrants, black cherries, and a range of spices. The tannins are "polished and long," contributing to an "endless" finish. Suckling calls it "one of the great Granges" that will age magnificently for decades.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine a 99, highlighting the exceptional conditions of the 2018 vintage. The review mentions flavors of spiced raspberry, salted licorice, and forest berries, with tannins that close around the fruit seamlessly. This Grange contains 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and grapes from Barossa, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley, each contributing unique characteristics. The review concludes that this is "an extraordinary Grange" that will improve with age.
Vinous rated it 98, describing it as a blend of Shiraz and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon with "immaculate balance and poise." The review praises the "sheer density of fruit" and notes flavors of blackberries, licorice, tar, and dried sage. Despite its concentration, the wine is "light on its feet" with a "distinguished finish."
Wine & Spirits gave it a 96, focusing on the "tannic intensity" and the complexity of its fruit and oak integration. The review notes flavors ranging from black olive to dark plum and describes the wine as "gripping and luscious" with energy and drive.
Wine Enthusiast rated it 98, highlighting its aromatic complexity, featuring black cherry, grilled plums, dark chocolate, and a range of herbs and spices. The palate is described as powerful yet dignified, with fine, chalky tannins and persistent flavor.
Wine Spectator also rated it 98, describing it as a "remarkable wine" with complexity and intensity, featuring notes of chicory, sarsaparilla, dark chocolate, and salted caramel. The review suggests it is enjoyable now but will continue to develop through 2045.
Overall, the 2018 Penfolds Grange is a highly acclaimed wine, praised for its balance, complexity, and aging potential.