Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz 2012

Penfolds has a rich history dating back to 1844 when Dr. Christopher and Mary Penfold arrived in Australia with a vine cutting and a bold vision. They purchased 500 acres of land in South Australia and began producing tonics, brandies, and fortified wines made from grapes and Australian sunshine. Christopher's planting of vines and his philosophies continue to influence Penfolds to this day. Mary Penfold, the unsung chief of Penfolds, played a significant role in the winery's experimentations, growth and winemaking philosophies. Max Schubert became the company's first Chief Winemaker in 1948 and created the long-lasting Penfolds Grange in the 1950s. The tradition of 'bin wines' began in 1959 with Kalimna Bin 28 becoming the first official Penfolds Bin number wine. Penfolds continues to innovate, with the release of the rare 2004 Kalimna Block Cabernet Sauvignon in 2012 and the 170th anniversary celebration in 2014. Today, Penfolds remains one of Australia's most famed and respected winemakers, driven by generations of visionaries and innovators who strive for excellence in winemaking.

The initials RWT stand for ‘Red Winemaking Trial’, the name given to the project internally when developmental work began in 1995. Naturally, now no longer a ‘trial’, its style is opulent and fleshy, contrasting with Grange, which is more muscular and assertive. RWT is made from fruit primarily selected for its aromatic qualities and plush texture. The result is a wine that helps to redefine Barossa shiraz at the highest quality level. RWT wines are built for the long haul, with the precision, concentration and balance to age for many years.

RWT Bin 798  aromas are regionally distinct, with an aromatic profile that can only signify the Barossa Valley. The palate is generous, with voluminous and enveloping tannins, so silken they betray their density and persistence. Peak drinking time for this vintage is between 2020 and 2040.

Deep crimson. Intense blackberry, praline, cinnamon, roasted chestnut, vanilla aromas with spicy, espresso notes. Ample in structure and densely packed yet gorgeously balanced with deep set inky blackberry, dark plum, mulberry fruit, velvety smooth textures, meaty nuances and superb spicy vanilla oak complexity. Finishes chocolaty with plenty of fruit sweetness and mineral length. This could be Grange in French Oak, a wonderful RWT with superb balance, richness of flavour, minerality and lasting power. A complete triumph. - Andrew Caillard, 99 Points.  

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2012
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%