No 1: Base of Neck
No 2: Penfolds Red Wine Clinic 2004, Minor Label Damage.
No 3: Very High Shoulder; Perfect Label Condition
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Awards and Ratings
Wine Spectator Top 100 #26 — Awarded 1988
Jeannie Cho Lee — 93/100
Robert Parker Wine Advocate — 97/100
CellarTracker — 93/100
About This Wine
Penfolds Grange 1981 is produced from fruit across several key South Australian regions, including Barossa Valley (Kalimna Vineyard), Magill Estate, Modbury Vineyard, Clare Valley and Coonawarra. The blend is 89% Shiraz and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured for 18 months in new American oak hogsheads.
The winemaking approach emphasises ripe Shiraz fruit and the influence of American oak, forming the hallmark Grange style known for density, concentration and longevity.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Dense purple/red.
Nose: Smoky, meaty and spicy aromas with toasty oak, vanilla and coffee notes.
Palate: Rich, fleshy, chocolaty and smoky flavours balanced by pronounced tannins and length. The wine shows strong concentration and a powerful structure.
Specifications
Country: Australia
Region: Barossa Valley; Kalimna Vineyard; Magill Estate (Adelaide); Modbury Vineyard (Adelaide); Clare Valley; Coonawarra
Grape Variety: 89% Shiraz, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon
Style: Red – Rich and Intense
Maturation: New American oak hogsheads
Alcohol: 12.6%
Closure: Cork
Bottle Size: 750ml
