Penfolds Grange 2010 is a perfect 100-point wine — awarded by James Suckling — and one that Chief Winemaker Peter Gago heralds with characteristic authority: “A kaleidoscopic sensorial unfolding!” A blend of Shiraz (96%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (4%) sourced from Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, and Magill Estate (Adelaide), matured for 17 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads. Classical, powerful, and expressive, the 2010 Grange is a wine of superb density, richness, and balance that strenuously asserts Grange’s positioning in the new millennium. Still needs time to fully unfold. Peak drinking 2030 to 2060.
Appearance
Black to the core with a purple rim — deep crimson of extraordinary concentration and intensity.
Aroma
Intense. An immediate barrel-ferment propulsion — sweet and candied, with a peaty, iodine, green olive base. Beneath this, a barely concealed swirl of Vegemite, yeast extract, and concentrated salt paste laced with paprika, oregano flower, and thyme. A slurry of cocoa powder, a scented waft of black pudding, and a splash of nori roll and sea spray temporarily balance the aromatic equation — before, a minute or two later, all changes. Intense pure elderberry, blackberry, and liquorice aromas emerge with roasted chestnut, vanilla, and camomile notes of remarkable clarity.
Palate
Dense, paste-like texture and weight. A balsamic liveliness, lift, and energy is unleashed. Tannins focus on the roof of the mouth, laden with an additional film of 85% cacao dark chocolate and mocha. A mix of quince and sesame paste laden with basted meats and saturated stewed plum, boysenberry, and blueberry. Plush and densely packed with elderberry, blackberry, and liquorice flavours, plentiful fine chalky tannins, and underlying mocha, vanilla, and roasted chestnut oak notes. The finish is chocolaty firm with abundant sweet fruits. Tightly bound — wait for decompression. Complete, Confident, Convincing.
Pairs With
Aged prime beef, slow-roasted lamb, game, and the finest hard cheeses. A wine that demands patience before the glass and at the table.
Reviews
100 Points — James Suckling
“Watch this wine closely because it’s a very special and important Grange!”
— Peter Gago, Penfolds Chief Winemaker
