1953 Grange
Vintage reviews
The second vintage of Grange to be released commercially and the first to use grapes from Penfolds prized Kalimna vineyard in the Barossa Valley.
One of three Grange vintages (1952 and 1962 are the others) produced in half (375ml) as well as full (750ml) bottles.
93/100
A blend of 87% Shiraz and 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 260 cases of this wine were produced. This is the first Grange to incorporate wine from the Kalimna region in the Barossa.
This was a revelation. An astonishing, great wine with remarkable vigor and freshness, this wine has a dark garnet color with considerable amber at the edge. A sweet nose of mushrooms, roasted herbs, tar, red and black fruits, and underbrush is followed by a wine with considerable opulence, flesh, and vivacity.
The wine has terrific harmony and a long finish. It is an amazing effort that should continue to drink well for another 7–10 years.
Robert M. Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, February 2002
97/100
Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com