The 1986 Penfolds Grange is a blend of 87% shiraz and 13% cabernet sauvignon and, as is usual for Grange, the grapes were sourced from all over. The grapes for this particular vintage were sourced from the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, McLaren Vale and an Adelaide vineyard.
Initially, the wine is a little reticent, but transforms itself in the glass to reveal nuanced aromatics of coffee, spiced plum, earth and clove. The palate too starts quietly, but with time an incredible depth and length of flavour emerges, with notes principally of plum, cedar and coffee characters. An outstanding vintage, this Grange is ready to drink now and will suit long ageing. Rating: Outstanding. Abv: 13.7%, Website: https://www.penfolds.com. Tasted: November 2014.
