Penley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Phoenix 2019

Sale $19.99

94 pts Wine Enthusiast / 92 pts Wine Spectator

Compare with other Australian Cabernets:

• Cullen Diana Madeline 2019 - 90 pts WS @ $125
• Henschke Cyril Henschke 2016 - 91 pts WS @ $180
• Wynns John Riddoch 2016 - 89 pts @ $150

Penley Estate is located in Coonawarra, southeastern Australia. Coonawarra’s cooler climate and sub-soils are ideal for Cabernet, in fact early settlers first planted grapes there back in the mid 1800’s because it reminded them of Bordeaux. Penley Estate’s long history is a story of pioneering women. The property was first established as the Magill Estate in 1844 by Mary Penfold, who is recognized as one of the most important pioneers in Australian history. Mary’s legacy is continued today through present owners Ang and Bec Tolley, her great great granddaughters.  

“Instead of selling, we decided to revitalise, reinvigorate and refresh the wine – make it true to itself, gossiped about and socially celebrated at any occasion… for everyone to enjoy.” – Bec Tolley

Winemaker Kate Goodman lets the fruit shine, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented in stainless steel and aged for 12 months in French oak, but importantly only 5% new barrels. Here the oak ageing is more to introduce oxygen and round off the shoulders, not to add any kind of oak flavour. This is a very pure expression of old vine Cabernet, with a full bouquet bursting with dark berried inky fruit and hints of ground coffee bean. Medium-full bodied, with lots of ripe plum and cassis abundant on the tongue, with just enough earth-tone and grip. The tannins are there, but are fine really well enveloped, producing a plush, smooth and frankly crushable Cabernet that’s really hard to resist. Wine Spectator’s review suggests that this wine could age this wine up to 2035, but you’ll find it hard to keep your hands off it now.

“This has terrific concentration, with generous black licorice, Earl Grey, allspice and dark chocolate notes that mingle with cassis, spiced stewed plum and toasted herb details. Shows plenty of harmony on the long, expressive finish, with velvety tannins. Drink now through 2035. ” – WS

"This excellent wine offers aromas of blueberry, currant, terra cotta, iodine, savory spices and an umami-like seaweed nuance. There's lovely depth of flavor, tannin structure and regional expression on the palate. Drink through 2040." WE


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