Penfolds RWT Shiraz 2003

Penfolds RWT Shiraz presents an admirable alternative to the multi-regional sourcing and American oak maturation that are hallmarks of Grange, expressing instead, single-region Barossa Valley Shiraz matured in French oak barriques. The initials RWT stand for ‘Red Winemaking Trial', the name given to the project internally when developmental work began in 1995. RWT Shiraz was launched in May 2000 with the 1997 vintage. Its style is opulent and fleshy, contrasting with Grange, which is more muscular and assertive. RWT is made from fruit primarily selected for its aromatic qualities and fine texture rather than sheer intensity or power of flavour. The result is a wine that helps to redefine Barossa Shiraz at the highest quality level.

The Barossa Valley endured the same drought conditions as most of the country with a very cool and dry winter followed by similar weather in spring. Above average temperatures with low rainfalls restricted yields, however dry weather after February allowed the vineyards to recover quickly. Shiraz produced a strong result with ripe fruit, balanced tannins and clear varietal character.
Vineyard Region Barossa Valley.

Grape Variety Shiraz (Syrah)
Maturation This wine was matured for 14 months in 66% new and 34% one year old French oak hogsheads.
Wine analysis alc/Vol: 14.50%
acidity: 6.60g/l
ph: 3.62

Food Matches Ideally suited to Beef, Duck & Game, Lamb

WINEMAKER COMMENTS

by Peter Gago
COLOUR Dark deep red.
NOSE Plush, lush, blackberry and loganberry conserve notes offer lifted sweet fruit aromas with the faintest suggestion of savoury oak. Stylistically very different from its release stablemate, 2001 Grange, with darker soy/tar notes and a trace of pepper.
PALATE A svelte, structurally tightly-bound package with good grip and definition. The sweet mid-palate is wrapped in plum, chocolate and spice flavours, while  pronounced grainy tannins and cedary integrated oak court a long lingering finish. At this stage of development the wine definitely needs air (a requirement, not a choice!), however the 2003 RWT is one to drink while waiting for the 2001 and 2002 to evolve.

CELLAR

peak drinking 2007 - 2018

 

www.penfolds.com.au

 

Can be purchased by the each but $15.00 delivery charge will apply.

RRP:	199.00
Your Price:	159.95	($AU inc. GST)
Min. order quantity:	1