The Penfolds Bin 95 Grange 2020 is a deep, dense, and impenetrable wine with a dark red colour that reaches to the rim. Its aromatics are dominated by shiraz notes of aniseed, liquorice, wintergreen, and fennel, with hints of damson plum. The oak, although almost fully absorbed, adds complexity and intrigue to the wine. The fruit is the star here, with a Champagne-like character that is immediately recognised. On the palate, red fruit flavours give way to darker notes of Black Forest cake, blackberry, and black cherry. The tannins are silky and velvety, providing a smooth and luxurious mouthfeel. Overall, this wine is well balanced and integrated, with a lush and round sensation on the palate. The oak, with nuances of sandalwood, plays a supporting role without being overpowering. This distinctive and assured Grange is sure to impress and delight.
"The classical and beautiful 2020 Grange, with its abundant dark berry fruits, massive concentration, oak maturation characters and well-integrated chocolaty tannins. possesses the detail and hallmarks of a First Growth Australian red. It has all the cadence and balance for long term aging. In years to come, it may be seen as one of the great vintages." 98 Points - Andrew Caillard MW
The most powerful expression of Penfolds multi-vineyard, multi-district blending philosophy, Grange is arguably Australia’s most celebrated wine and is officially listed as a Heritage Icon of South Australia. Crafted utilising fully ripe, intensely flavoured and structured Shiraz grapes, the result is a unique Australian style that is now recognised as one of the most consistent of the world’s great wines. With an unbroken line of vintages from the experimental 1951, Grange clearly demonstrates the synergy between Shiraz and the soils and climates of South Australia.
South Australia experienced its second successive winter marked by drought, with the Barossa Valley recording its driest year on record and the Clare Valley experiencing its driest winter in over a century. These arid conditions persisted into spring, leading to delayed flowering and fruit set, underscoring irrigation’s crucial role due to below-average root zone moisture levels. Both the Clare Valley and Barossa Valley regions were touched by September frosts, though losses were alleviated through frost fans. Summer commenced with an intense heatwave across the state, resulting in 26 days above 35°C in the Barossa Valley alone. However, a reprieve came with cooler weather in January and February. McLaren Vale was more fortunate, benefiting from higher-than-average rainfall in February which bolstered vine health for the rest of the growing season. Lower bunch weights and berry counts were recorded across all regions leading to significantly reduced yields. However, these testing conditions often culminate in exceptional quality fruit. Indeed, 2020 saw some remarkable Shiraz crops that have contributed to an opulent expression of Grange.
97% Shiraz, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley
