Objective To create a youthful, rich and mellow wine. Created to drink now. A wine of varietal fruit but only the hint of American oak. Oak will complex the flavors and enhance the fruit. This wine must show area characteristics, varietal fruit and have plenty of flavor. The Wine The color is crimson, but will develop some amber tints from its oak maturation and later bottle age. The aroma is varietal with a complex of berry and peppery like features. Strong lifted aromas of variety and oak. The flavor is young and fruity. A soft and rich middle palate with only the trace of oak tannin on the finish. Maturation read more...The oak is minimal but discernible so the small amount of wood tannin and fruit flavors will aid maturation if required. Best enjoyed for the next 1-3 years. Winemaking - The Penley Style The balance is a key feature in all Penley Wines. This ensures the wines will mature successfully in the bottle, this wine shows dominance of fruit with hints of smoky oak and grape tannin. A wine made to enjoy while the young distinct but elegant Coonawarra Shiraz characters are evident. Characters of berry and black peppers. American Oak and French Oak Hogsheads for up to 18 months.    (hide)

Rating: 4/5 - As reviewed by Decanter. Big and brooding. A well-balanced palate with plenty of fruit and tannin. Elegant, long and fine. Needs several years but well made.

Rating: 88/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 12/31/00.

Rating: 88/100 - As reviewed by Wine & Spirits Magazine.