97 James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion

A deep and powerful Cabernet of full purple hue that speaks of the density and magnitude that is Penfolds, intricately interwoven with the the sweet fruit lusciousness and ripeness of California. Deep, sweeping strokes of blackcurrant, cassis, black licorice, coal steam and long-lingering satsuma plum all coat the palate. It's wrapped in a confident wave of Penfolds tannins, firm, fine and instilled with great endurance, framed in dark chocolate and coffee bean oak. A grand spectacle with monumental presence and impressive line and length. The standout of the release, Peter's favourite, and mine. (TS) Inner quote mark (1/2021)

96 Decanter

A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, combining 85.1% fruit from the Napa Valley (predominantly from Oakville, Rutherford and Calistoga AVAs) and the remainder from several of Penfolds’ South Australian vineyards, moving it beyond the expected Napa Cab expression to instead exert its own unique personality. The Australian component introduces rich, lifted aromas of blueberry and blackberry, and a more opulent fruit presence. It adds freshness and vibrancy to the dense Napa body, resulting in a vivacious, cheery red still bound by firm tannins. (DS) Inner quote mark (2/2021)