Source: Winemaker,

A rich tradition of experimentation and a quest to source quality grapes from afar continues to inspire Penfolds winemaking curiosity. Penfolds FWT (French Winemaking Trial) 585 is sourced from exceptional vineyards across the M?doc region using time-honoured Penfolds techniques. Anchored by a philosophy of selecting grapes and blending quality wines to a House Style, it marks the beginning of a new chapter for Penfolds in France.

The aromatic promise is reinforced by a tightly structured palate. Round and full to the fore, sage fried in butter and served over pan-fried sweetbreads.?Texturally appetising – mineral gravelly tannins, succulence cranberry like acidity provides a fine line of delicious lively acidity. Charcuterie leaning towards a savoury bresaola, a suggestion of cranberry and pistachio terrine. Polished mahogany oak, creaminess and spice. Complex, multi-faceted… another glass beckons!

VINTAGE CONDITIONS

Winter was relatively mild with February temperatures well above average. Budburst was a week earlier than usual. May and June were cooler with intermittent rainfall slowing vine development. However, flowering occurred in warm, dry weather with minimal disease pressure. Summer was generally warm, accelerating vine growth. A mid-summer heatwave slowed the pace of development, while a dry August ensured an early ripening vintage. The grapes retained good freshness and balance despite the warm conditions, with lovely ripe tannins and rich phenolic expression.

GRAPE VARIETY
53% Cabernet, 34% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot
VINEYARD REGION
Haut-M?doc
WINE ANALYSIS
Alc/Vol: 14%, PH: 3.60, Acidity: 5.83g/L
MATURATION
14 Months In French (44% New) And American Oak (14% New) Barriques