The 2018 Penfolds Superblend 802.B is a proprietary blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Shiraz, sourced from various notable regions in South Australia including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Wrattonbully, Robe, and Clare Valley. This wine underwent a unique process where the blend was matured for 19 months in French oak hogsheads, 54% of which were new. This method, unusual for Penfolds, has resulted in a harmonious integration of the two grape varieties.
Halliday Wine Companion awarded this wine an impressive 98 points, highlighting its "harmony and integration astonishing in a youthful blend of such monumental longevity." They praised the "superfine and mineral" tannins and noted its potential for long-term aging.
James Suckling also gave it a 98-point score, describing it as "the pick of the two new, limited-release ‘Superblend’ wines from 2018." He emphasized the complex aroma profile, including "spiced dark-berry and plum" with "graphite and cedary oak," and commended its "layered and seamless" palate.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate rated the wine 97 points, noting its "refined and elegant" character compared to its counterpart, the 802.A. They highlighted the wine's "medium to full-bodied, silky and fine" texture with a "long, lingering finish," complemented by flavors of "mocha and dark chocolate."
Wine Spectator described the 2018 Superblend 802.B as "rich, dense, complex and seamless," awarding it 96 points. The review detailed the wine's blend of "salted dark chocolate, black olive, cardamom, black pepper, and Earl Grey tea" notes, which enhance the core flavors of "huckleberry, boysenberry, and spiced plum."
Decanter gave it a 94-point review, noting its "luscious" quality and "silky texture." They mentioned that the oak plays a significant structural role but allows "pretty elements to shine in time."
Vinous rated it 95 points, commenting on its "powerful, spice-accented cherry preserve, blackberry, potpourri, and baking spice scents." The review highlighted the wine's long, lively finish with "gently gripping tannins" and a "late suggestion of musky chewing tobacco."
Overall, the 2018 Penfolds Superblend 802.B is highly regarded for its balance, complexity, and potential for aging, with multiple reviewers praising its harmonious integration and refined character.