Grange 1983 Penfolds

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Robert Parker (92)

The earliest harvest on record at Penfolds, the 1983 vintage was characterized by devastating bush fires, followed by enormous flooding in March. A blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine has a surprisingly low pH (3.41) for a Grange, with an amazing 7.1 grams of acid per liter. The wine still shows considerable tannin in its flavors, but enormously powerful, rich, high acid characteristics. It is somewhat of a paradox to taste. Five years ago, it was exhibiting huge, powerful, concentrated flavors, but also high acid and high tannin. The wine seems very youthful, very backward, and still in need of at least another 4-5 years of cellaring. Whether it will all come together in a seamless classic remains open to conjecture. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.

Winespectator (90)

Deep, dense and chewy, this is packed with plum and mineral flavors that are dominated by the structure now, but will have fleshed out by 2003 to 2006.

Rene Gabriel (18)

Rene Gabriel rates this wine 18/20 points.