Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz 2009

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 colour. Intense blackberry, paneforte, dark chocolate aromas and vanilla oak. Delicious sweet fruit, blackberry, paneforte flavours with superb richness, volume and vinosity. The palate is supple with plentiful chalky tannins and lovely integration of vanilla oak. Finishes long and sweet. - Andrew Caillard, 97 Points.  

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2009
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%