G5 (Grange blend: 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 & 2018) NV Penfolds

Professional reviews

James Suckling (100)

Glorious aromas of blackberry, spice, tile and toasted wood that move into sandalwood, violet and rose petal, then cloves and nutmeg, before revealing a cappuccino and cream undertone. Full-bodied yet very tight and compacted with a dense center palate that is still agile and energetic. Tightly wound and compressed. Great complexity. Waiting to open and unravel in the bottle. It builds on the palate with such fine tannins that perfectly integrate. 97% shiraz and 3% cabernet sauvignon, with 70% from Barossa Valley, the rest from McLaren Vale and Claire Valley with small percentages from other sources. Multi-vintage blend: 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018. 2,200 bottles produced. Drink this after 2021 and onwards but already an ethereal wine!

BOW (9.50)

Winespectator (99)

Complex, stylish and distinctive, this is a stunner, with aromatics leaping out of the glass, including dark chocolate–covered peppermint pattie, dried sage, salted black licorice and Black Forest cake, with plenty of rich spiced plum, cherry preserves and framboise. Savory elements balance out the richness, with hints of dried porcini, white truffle and firming earthy notes that show a touch of black walnut liqueur. The tannins are polished and refined, while the finish is epic. Drink now through 2045.

Jancis Robinson (18.50)

Opened ten hours earlier. Intoxicating oak scent – drenched with coconut and vanilla. Lusciously fruited, of course, with a few degrees more subtlety than the Grange 2017. Brambles from start to finish, with not a thorn in sight. It is a marvel of blending, without any peppery character, but all the richness and history of Barossa Shiraz. Finishes with black liquorice.