1986 Penfolds Shiraz "Grange Hermitage". South Australia, Australia.
13.9% alcohol. $500. 5,790 cases produced.
Shockingly deep purple color. Still youthful aromas of plum, oak, mint, vanilla, high-toned spice, and some “redwood”. Thick and rich with excellent length and lush acidity. Scads of layered and intense fruit cascade across the palate. Simply gorgeous despite it not being quite mature yet. 87% Shiraz and 13% Cabernet that was raised for 20 months in new American oak hogsheads. Grapes were sourced from Kalimna in the Barossa, Modbury in Adelaide, the McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley. Drink now (2009) to 2017. 96 points.

The 86 is the best Grange I've ever tasted. It's also the oldest I've ever tasted with the others being the 89,90,91,94,95,96,98.

This remains one of my favorite wines ever. Tremendous! Thanks for the notes.

jb