Penfolds has announced the release of its ultra-rare g5, which is a blend of five vintages of Grange – the 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and not-yet released 2018. This unique wine, priced at $3500, is the third and final release in the Penfolds ‘g’ series, which combines various vintages of the iconic wine. The debut g3 launched in 2017, blending the 2008, 2012 and 2014 vintages of Grange, and the g4 launched last year, fusing the 2002, 2004, 2008 and 2016.
The move to combine various vintages of Penfolds Grange reflects the winery’s long-held philosophy of blending – not just across regions, but also vintages. In doing so, the winemaking team has created a unique expression of the Penfolds flagship.
Penfolds chief winemaker Peter Gago (below) says many collectors had queried why the landmark 2010 Grange had not yet been included in the previous 'g' series releases, particularly as the exceptional release had received 100 points or complete scores from a range of wine critics on its release.
“And provocatively, how could we not include the yet-to-be released 2018 Grange?” Peter says. “Each of the five vintages sensitively brings their own personality and contribution to the blend, which is an inverted anticipatory response to the inevitable query – why no g6?”
The release of the Penfolds g5 coincides with Grange’s 70th anniversary year. After 70 years of unbroken vintage releases, it remains one of the world’s most collected wines. Just 2200 bottles of the ultra-rare wine are available globally, and expressions of interest for it are now open via the Penfolds website. It is due for release next August.
Penfolds tasting notes
Below, read the review of Penfolds g5 by Halliday Wine Companion chief editor Tyson Stelzer, who was the first person outside the Penfolds team to taste the wine last week. Also listed are the reviews for the previously released Penfolds Grange vintages that are blended in the g5, noting that the 2018 is still yet to release.
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