1999 Grange

The 1999 vintage in South Australia was defined by generally dry and cool weather conditions during early summer, temporarily disrupted by a hot spell in late January before moderate conditions during vintage.

Multi-regional sourcing and strong vineyard management resulted in parcels of fruit being harvested with hallmark fruit richness and ripe tannins. 100% Shiraz. 17 months in new American oak.

John Duval, Penfolds chief winemaker

92/100

The 1999 Grange does not come close to such great Granges as the 1998, 1996, 1991, and 1990.

Dense ruby/purple to the edge, with a bouquet of blackberries, mulberries, and floral-like aromas, and medium to full body, the 1999 has an acid punch, but also tremendous layers of fruit and extract. Not massive, but elegant and nicely layered, it requires another 2-3 years of cellaring, and should last for 12-15 years.

Penfolds needs to take a long, critical look at its winemaking philosophy. This is the great name in Australian winedom, and they should be a leader and reference point for fine winemaking. Obviously, they have access to some tremendous vineyard sites, and from a budgetary standpoint, they appear capable of doing anything they want.

What is the purpose of sculpting wines that are essentially the products of a few oenologists connecting the dots and making wines by the numbers? The lack of naturalness and soul in these wines is worrisome.

Robert M. Parker Jr., Wine Advocate #155, October 2004

94/100

Not quite as broad and generous as riper vintages, but tremendously classy, offering smoky, earthy blackberry, plum and currant fruit that compete effectively against cedary oak on the long finish.

The flavors gain with each sip, fanning out impressively. It's tight now, but it could age beautifully. Best after 2009.

Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator, 30 September 2004

96/100

Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com