Penley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: April 2017
Barry Weinman: 30th April 2017
There have been some changes at Penley Estate over the last few years. None have been more important than the appointment of the talented Kate Goodman to lead the winemaking, following the retirement of Kim Tolley. The packaging has also been refreshed, complementing the changes in the winery.
My first impression is that the quality of the wines is high, with the lower priced wines offering excellent value.
I look forward to watching their evolution over the next few years.
Reviewed
Penley Estate – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc – Gryphon – 2014 (17.5pts – $20). The ripe menthol fruit is true to this wine’s Coonawarra origins. Mouth-filling, the fruit lingers and is complemented by tight tannins. This is actually quite impressive, and represents excellent value
Penley Estate – Cabernet/Merlot/Shiraz – Timbrell – 2014 (17.5pts – $30). Almost plum like fruit, with a core of mint and gentle eucalypt characters. The tannins are relatively fine and non-obtrusive, allowing the fruit to take centre stage. This is ripe and plush, making for excellent short – medium term drinking.
Penley Estate – Cabernet Sauvignon – Tolmer – 2013 (17.8pts – $30). Powerful and brooding, with firm, chewy tannins. The fruit is inaccessible at first. Mouth-coating, with air the fragrant blueberry/mulberry fruit opens up and is complemented by a touch of cedar. A youthful, complex wine that needs a few years to open up.
Penley Estate – Cabernet Sauvignon – Steyning – 2013 (18+pts – $45). Fragrant and pretty. Vibrant red fruit with a Margeaux-like floral lift. The palate is balanced and harmonious, with the ripe fruit carrying all the way to the close. The acid, tannins and oak balance the fruit nicely, aiding mouth-feel, though the tannins do get grippy to close. Very easy to drink, yet will age well for 10+ years..