The family owned Penley Estate has gone through a rebirth in recent times. New wine maker Kate Goodman has introduced a far more contemporary style of wine making, partnered with well respected viticulturist David Paxton tending to the estate vineyards. A quiet revolution taking place with wines now produced from outside of Coonawarra.

 There’s blood plum, blackcurrant, cold drip coffee and ironstone. Densely flavoured through the mid palate - full of plush black fruits, leather and spice. With all the depth and broodiness mentioned, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a heavy beast of a wine – there’s a brightness of fruit adding freshness and a kick of vibrancy here. Tannins are powdery and fine, wound tightly amongst the ripe cassis core of fruit that drives the palate.

Matured 18 months in French oak, 30% new. The fruit is in full bloom and the tannin is firm and substantial. It still manages to have plenty of length. This is another cracking release under this label. Blackcurrant, gum leaf, cedar and violets, with peppercorns and plums filling it out. There's more than a little 'wow' to this. It feels fresh too, in a good way. It's excellent. Date: Feb 2023; Alcohol: 14.5%; Price: $75.00; Drink by: 2042; Rating: 96 Points & Special Value Star; Campbell Mattinson; James Halliday Wine Companion