FWT 585 Cabernet Merlot Petit Verdot 2021
Penfolds
FWT 585 Cabernet Merlot Petit Verdot 2021
Penfolds
FWT 585 Cabernet Merlot Petit Verdot 2021
Overview
Overview
A rich tradition of experimentation and a quest to source quality grapes from afar continues to inspire Penfolds winemaking curiosity. This is the third release of Penfolds French Winemaking Trial, a wine sourced from exceptional vineyards across Bordeaux using time proven Penfolds techniques. Anchored by a philosophy of selecting grapes and blending quality wines to a house style, FWT 585 continues to propel Penfolds into its future.
| Varietal | Red Blend |
|---|---|
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Country | France |
| Region | Multi Region |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Closure | Cork |
| Alc/Vol | 13.5% |
| Peak Drinking | Now - 2040 |
Awards and Accolades
Awards and Accolades
| 95 Points | Ken Gargett |
Taste Description
Taste Description
Nose
This classic blend greets the nose with an inviting bouquet of lifted summer berries, raspberry confit, and fruit bread that intertwines with the delicate sweetness of pastries dusted with icing sugar. Turmeric and peppermint add an unexpected freshness to the aromatic profile, while earthy undertones of shitake mushrooms and pine leaves showcase Medoc character. Vanilla bean pod and a subtle hint of Tabasco round out this complex nose.
Flavours and Palate
A vibrant palate that bursts forth with flavours of wild strawberry, cranberry, satsuma plum, and cherry. A creamy oak influence weaves through like nougat, reminiscent of freshly baked pastries. The structure is defined by tannins that suggest wet steel (ironstone) – fine and gravelly. A light dusting of cacao powder graces the finish. Underpinning it all are notes that speak to varietal heritage; an herbaceous bouquet garni laced with nutmeg spice adds depth and complexity.
Viticulture Vintage & Winemaking
Viticulture Vintage & Winemaking
Vintage Conditions
The 2021 was marked by cooler than average weather and plentiful rainfall. The budbreak was early and was followed by cool and dry conditions. Flowering occurred in late May, in good climactic conditions – hot and dry. The sudden warmth led to strong canopy growth. Cool weather throughout August and September slowed ripening, however a month of dry conditions prevailed in the lead up to harvest, helping balance soil moisture levels. Some welcome sunshine arrived in time for the harvest. The fruit was larger than average, although the skins achieved promising tannic and richness despite the prevailing cool conditions. Grapes were harvested with good levels of maturity. This is a vintage in the traditional style, reflecting the cooler conditions of the year.
The Penfolds Team
Key to the success of Penfolds has been a lineage of visionary winemakers. There have only ever been four Chief Winemakers at the helm of Penfolds – Max Schubert, Don Ditter, John Duval and Peter Gago, each a custodian of a rich winemaking tradition that goes back for more than 170 years.
Our current Penfolds winemaking team has more than 100 years between them as Penfolds winemakers. They are constantly refining and improving their work, whilst honouring the winemaking techniques of their predecessors.