Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Barossa Valley Shiraz 2023

Retains that new oak smell and feel. Indeed, 14 months in French oak hogsheads (69% new) is towards the higher end of oak for RWT (but not as high as 83% in the 2015), and has contributed not only a healthy dose of cedary, woody spice aromas, but helped emphasise the sweetness of ripe Barossa blueberry, red berried, cassis fruit accompanied by a whiff of earthy savouriness. Arrives fresh and lively, offering a warm Barossa welcome. This is one engaging RWT, on the full charm offensive with its ripe plums and dark fruits, heady spices, chocolate pan forte qualities and oh so smart – and expensive – vanillin, cedary oak qualities. It comes framed in fine pencil lead/graphite tannins that turn a little dry on the finish and remain steadfast throughout. RWT always has further ageing on its mind, especially so as a two-year-old.