At a glance

Producer

Penfolds

Region

South Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz (Syrah) with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

USD 850 - 1200 per bottle

Tasting profile

Concentrated blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, anise, leather, and smoky oak aromas with dense and structured palate

Evolution: Will develop layered complexity with tertiary notes of game meat, truffle, forest floor, and earthiness over decades

At peak: Powerful and harmonious integration of fruit, oak, and savory notes with velvety, refined tannins and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced and moderate acidity, supporting freshness through aging

Tannins

Firm, ripe, and well-integrated tannins designed for long-term aging

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%-15%

Aging potential

30-40+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2055

Optimal window

2025 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early drinking maturity but still very young

Current condition

Rich, tannic, and structured with primary fruit and powerful oak influence

Penfolds Grange 2018 is crafted for extended aging. The vintage's ripe fruit, robust tannins, and meticulous oak treatment provide a long lifespan. Drinking too early doesn't reveal the full complexity. The wine reaches optimal expression after 7+ years of bottle age and sustains peak complexity for another 15-20 years.

Food pairing

Pairs well with flavorful red meats like grilled ribeye, lamb roast, game dishes, rich stews, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the powerful tannins to soften and the complex aromas to unfold fully

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Penfolds employs sustainable viticulture including water conservation, integrated pest management, and energy-efficient winery operations. Packaging uses recycled materials when possible.

Although Penfolds does not currently hold organic or biodynamic certifications for Grange, the producer actively implements sustainable farming and production practices to minimize environmental impact. The scale of production and global distribution create a moderate carbon footprint. Continued efforts in water use reduction and energy efficiency contribute positively to sustainability.