Matured for 12 months in American (25% new) and French (7% new) hogsheads and puncheons. Inky purple-crimson hue; lives up to the expectations year in, year out. American oak suits the style down to the ground viewed against the broad church of Penfolds red wines. The tannins are soft and integrated, allowing the palate to break free for an instant or two.

-James Halliday