2016 Bin 111a

That signature oak is in absolutely full effect on the nose. Fruit follows on the palate, but there's a wonderful sanguinous quality too, which is very much in the mould of northern Rhône red. Top quality, impeccable polish and intensity without losing a sense of balance and authenticity. (RH)

100% Shiraz. TA 7.4 g/l, pH 3.67. 18 months in 100% new French oak hogsheads. From two vineyards: one a grower (Gersch in Barossa – next year will be their 100th consecutive delivery of grapes to Penfolds) and another that they have just bought which is a frequent ingredient in Grange (Botanic Vineyard in Clare, from a 70-year-old owner who was ready to sell). 18 months in 100% new French oak hogsheads. This is the debut vintage – ‘No compromising the other Penfolds’ wines.’ Dark purple and really rather modern. Not quite Grange, not quite anything else. Lots of tannins. Great patience needed for this wine but it does benefit from the Clare gloss and relative freshness. (JR)

A new addition to the Penfolds lineup, the 2016 Bin 111A Shiraz is a blend of Clare (51%) and Barossa (49%) fruit from vineyards that have previously contributed to Grange. Aged in 100% new French oak, it's a rich, luxuriously textured wine that's packed with ripe fruit and finely textured tannins. Hints of grilled meat and exotic dried spices accent red raspberries and redcurrants in this full-bodied but exceptionally silky and elegant red that meets the high expectations for such a pricey bottling.