Log in / Sign up Penfolds Bin 585 FWT Red Blend 2022
, Merlot , Petit Verdot A rich tradition of experimentation and a quest to source quality grapes from afar continues to inspire Penfolds winemaking curiosity. This is the fourth release of the French Winemaking Trial, sourced from exceptional vineyards across Bordeaux, employing time-proven Penfolds techniques in its creation. Anchored in a philosophy of selecting and blending to a House Style, FWT 585 is a Penfolds take on a classic Bordeaux blend.
The 2022 vintage is vibrant and refined, balancing power and poise. Its palate explores dark fruits and sweet spices, carried along by fine, silky tannins. A decadent wine, and destined to age gracefully.
The vineyards of France were blessed by ample winter rainfall leading into the spring growing season. Most growers also reported healthy falls in spring, alleviating vine stress during budburst and flowering. Above average spring temperatures mitigated frost risk in most appellations. Summer temperatures were well above average, with dry conditions prevailing through to autumn. Although the heat increased vine stress, lessons learned from previous warm vintages paid dividends. Canopies remained green and healthy, while bunches ripened evenly. Cooler nights towards the end of veraison helped retain freshness, a hallmark of the vintage, while thick-skinned berries developed excellent colours and tannins. A darker fruit profile well suited to the Penfolds House Style.
Beef, lamb, and venison are excellent choices.
An array of dark fruits and florals. Leading the way, sun-dried fig, succulent fresh blueberries, and delicate violets. This wine exudes a lovely, sweet fruit essence, elevating the aromatics with a richness that is undeniably Penfolds. Subtle undertones of mocha blend with gâteau de fruit à pain, while paprika and turmeric spice add depth. Oak maturation imparts further complexity, introducing the refined essence of blond tabac, a fragrant blend of bergamot, neroli, lavender, tobacco, oakmoss, and vanilla. A hint of struck flint provides a stony-mineral counterpoint to the sweet/ spice richness, resulting in a diverse bouquet.
A lavish display of sweet and sour Amarena cherries emerges, akin to a decadent black cherry tart with crème fraîche. This lush fruit core is balanced by a refreshing herbaceous nuance, with bay leaf and chocolate mint offering a counterpoint to the buoyant fruit. The toasty oak is masterfully integrated, folded into the core rather than imposed, contributing to the creamy texture that endures with each sip. The structure of the wine is framed by fine, pebbly tannins, which lend a tactile sensation akin to the smoothness of wet stone. It commands attention, balancing power and poise with a deft touch.
