G4 (Grange blend: 2002, 2004, 2008 & 2016) 2002 Penfolds

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (99)

A blend of Grange from the 2002, 2004, 2008 and 2016 vintages, Penfolds's NV G4 is likely more of a curiosity-collectible than anything else, given its otherworldly price tag and limited production (2,500 individually numbered bottles). That said, if you're lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle, I hope you ultimately drink it, preferably shared with good friends. It comes across as relatively youthful, with plenty of primary fruit (raspberries and blackberries), cedar and vanilla and dusty tannins. Concentrated and full-bodied, it does show glimpses of slightly aged characters—hints of roasted meat, caramel and tobacco—but I would still give this another five years before I'd broach a bottle. If you're on a non-billionaire budget, you might rather have three or four bottles of Grange—but G4 will certainly give you bragging rights.

Winespectator (100)

he complexity here is astonishing with dried flowers, crushed blackberries and blueberries and forest berries. Sandalwood. Full-bodied with a big dimension to the fruit and ripe tannins. Ethereal and long with superb balance that goes on and on. Grilled-meat and black-truffle character on the palate. Subtle, yet complex and intense. A blend of 2002, 2004, 2008 and 2016 vintages of Grange. The finish lasts a good 10 minutes. Glorious. Still needs three or four years to come together. Try after 2023.

BOW (9.50)