RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz 1999

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

Vineyard Region

Barossa Valley

Vintage Conditions

Uncharacteristic cool weather and spring rains retarded vine development throughout the valley. This was exacerbated by high temperatures in January followed by rains in February and early March. The season finished warm and dry however, enabling a trouble-free final ripening, with 1999 fruit characteristically lighter than 1996 or 1998, but also brighter and more varietally distinct.

Grape Variety

Shiraz (Syrah)

Maturation

14 months in 75% new and 25% two-year-old French oak.

Colour

Deep purple with a dense, black centre.

Nose

Unmistakable Barossa Shiraz hallmarks of liquorice, anise, tar and ripe dark summer berries are set against cedary French oak. Impressive power of sweet fruits and spices.

Palate

The palate is built around a core of plush ripe fruits and a background of well-integrated classy French oak. Menthol and dark chocolate notes rise as the wine sits in the glass, with tight, grainy tannins and excellent length. The fabulous mouth-feel, texture and flavour are all testimony to this wine's quality and its status as a classic of its variety and region.

Wine Analysis

Alc/Vol: 13.5%  Acidity: 7.10g/L  pH: 3.42

Food Matches

Ideally suited to Beef, Cheese