Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz: A Luxurious Expression of Barossa Valley Terroir
Introduction
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is one of the most celebrated wines in the Penfolds portfolio, embodying the elegance and opulence of Barossa Valley Shiraz. Introduced in 1997, the RWT (Red Winemaking Trial) was conceived as a contrast to Penfolds’ iconic Grange, focusing on a singular expression of Shiraz from the Barossa Valley and exclusively matured in French oak. Over the years, it has become a staple in the Penfolds lineup, admired for its rich fruit, refined tannins, and exceptional aging potential.
The RWT Bin 798 Shiraz showcases the finest Shiraz fruit from the Barossa Valley, with each vintage reflecting the unique characteristics of the region’s terroir. It is a wine that balances power with elegance, making it a favorite among collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Winemaking and Philosophy
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail that has made Penfolds one of the most revered names in Australian winemaking. The wine is sourced from select vineyards across the Barossa Valley, a region renowned for producing some of the world’s best Shiraz. The fruit is handpicked and carefully sorted to ensure only the highest quality grapes are used.
The hallmark of RWT is its maturation in 100% French oak hogsheads, which imparts a subtle, refined oak character that complements the vibrant fruit flavors. Unlike Penfolds Grange, which is aged in American oak and often showcases a bolder, more muscular style, RWT is intended to be a more elegant and polished expression of Shiraz.
Each vintage of RWT is a testament to the skill of Penfolds’ winemaking team, as they strive to balance the intense flavors and robust structure of Barossa Valley Shiraz with the finesse and complexity that comes from French oak aging.
Tasting Notes
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is a wine of extraordinary depth and complexity, with a deep, garnet color in the glass. The nose is immediately captivating, offering a rich and layered bouquet of dark berries, including blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum, intertwined with notes of dark chocolate, licorice, and violet. The influence of French oak is evident, with hints of vanilla, cedar, and spice adding further complexity.
On the palate, RWT is full-bodied and luxurious, with a dense core of ripe black fruit flavors that are both concentrated and refined. The wine’s texture is smooth and velvety, with well-integrated tannins that provide structure without overpowering the fruit. Layers of dark chocolate, mocha, and espresso add depth, while a touch of earthiness and minerality brings balance and freshness. The finish is long and lingering, with a seamless integration of fruit, oak, and tannin that promises further development with age.
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is a wine that can be enjoyed now for its opulent fruit and silky texture, but it also has the potential to age gracefully for 15 to 20 years, during which time it will develop even greater complexity and nuance.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Given its richness and depth, Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is best enjoyed with equally flavorful and luxurious dishes. Its bold fruit flavors and refined structure make it a perfect match for a variety of meats and savory dishes.
For a classic pairing, serve RWT with grilled or roasted red meats, such as a ribeye steak, lamb chops, or beef tenderloin. The wine’s ripe fruit and spice will complement the savory, charred flavors of the meat, while its velvety tannins provide a refreshing contrast.
For a more indulgent pairing, consider pairing RWT with braised dishes, such as beef bourguignon, osso buco, or a slow-cooked lamb shank. The wine’s opulence and depth will echo the rich, umami flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing.
Cheese lovers will appreciate the pairing of RWT with hard, aged cheeses, such as aged cheddar, Gouda, or a mature blue cheese. The wine’s fruitiness and spice will complement the nutty, savory flavors of the cheese, while its tannins provide a refreshing counterpoint.
For those who enjoy pairing wine with dessert, RWT is a perfect match for dark chocolate-based desserts, such as a chocolate tart, chocolate truffles, or a flourless chocolate cake. The wine’s dark fruit and mocha notes will enhance the richness of the chocolate, while its tannins balance the sweetness.
Serving and Storage Tips
To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz, it is best served at a temperature of around 60-65°F (16-18°C). This will allow the wine’s aromas and flavors to fully develop, providing a more enjoyable drinking experience. Decanting the wine for at least an hour before serving can help to soften the tannins and open up the wine’s aromatic profile, making it even more expressive and nuanced.
Given its aging potential, Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz should be stored in optimal conditions to ensure its longevity. Store the wine in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature and humidity, ideally in a cellar or wine fridge. Proper storage will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and nuance over time, rewarding those who have the patience to wait.
The Legacy of Penfolds RWT
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz has earned its place as one of Australia’s most iconic wines, alongside the legendary Grange. It represents a different expression of Shiraz, one that emphasizes elegance, refinement, and the unique characteristics of the Barossa Valley. Over the years, RWT has become a benchmark for quality in Australian Shiraz, admired for its consistency, complexity, and aging potential.
With each new vintage, Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz continues to uphold the high standards that have made Penfolds a household name in the world of wine. It is a wine that showcases the best of Australian winemaking and the exceptional terroir of the Barossa Valley.
Conclusion
Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is a wine that exemplifies the best of Barossa Valley Shiraz, offering an opulent yet elegant expression of this iconic varietal. With its rich fruit, refined tannins, and complex spice, RWT is a wine that can be enjoyed now or aged for decades, offering a truly extraordinary drinking experience. Whether as a collector’s item or a special occasion wine, Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz is a masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of tasting it.
