A powerful yet refined expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz, the 2022 RWT Bin 798 showcases depth, intensity, and polished structure. Aromas of mulberry, blood plum, spice, and ironstone unfold alongside subtle French oak nuances. The palate is dense and concentrated, with dark fruit, creamy tannins, and vibrant acidity driving a long, focused finish.

The Wine Advocate | RP 96
Published: Jul 18, 2024
Drink: 2024-2042

The 2022 RWT Bin 798 is archetypal Barossa Shiraz: it has red earth, ironstone, mulberry, blood plum, sumac spices and dried herbs in profusion. The wine is earthy, tannic and ripe, with a framing of charry oak. I find this to be muscular, dense, intense and super concentrated, and for lovers of the RWT style, this will likely cement itself as one of the greats. It is a massive wine, well-handled and powerful. It matured for 14 months in French oak hogsheads, 67% new. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.

James Suckling | JS 95
Published: Jun 27, 2024

Fascinating, subtle aromas of blackberry, cloves and white pepper with some cedar. Medium-bodied with dark fruit and creamy tannins that are integrated and polished. Fine and focused finish. Very drinkable now, but will age nicely.

Decanter | D 94
Published: Jun 3, 2024
Drink: 2026-2050

Unlike many of Penfolds’ elite Shiraz wines, Bin 798’s exclusive use of French oak hogsheads (67% new) presents a significantly different character than its stablemates, being more elegant and rarefied, despite the core ingredient being juicy Barossa Shiraz. While the fruity flavours sing, the silky palate certainly benefits from a more relaxed tannin profile – especially when compared to previous vintages. It makes the wine more approachable now, but certainly doesn’t sacrifice any of its durability or cellaring potential.Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 14.50%
Body: Full
Oak: Oaked
Grapes: 100% Syrah / Shiraz

Jancis Robinson | JR 17+
Published: Jun 20, 2024
Drink: 2028-2050

Full bottle 1,441 g. Aged 14 months in French oak hogsheads (67% new, 29% second use, 4% third use). This ‘red winemaking trial’ is designed to be more approachable than Grange.
Very dark blackish crimson. Aromatic start and then a little pinched and drying on the finish. I know it’s meant to be opulent but I’m not sure it is in this case. Definitely needs time. But the very lively fruit on the end suggests there’s a fine future eventually in view. Relatively refined Barossa Shiraz.

Penfolds.com

RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz presents an admirable alternative to the multi-regional sourcing and American oak maturation that are hallmarks of Grange, expressing instead, single region Barossa Valley shiraz matured only in French oak. The initials RWT stand for Red Winemaking Trial, the name given to the project internally when developmental work began in 1995. Naturally, now no longer a 'Trial', RWT Shiraz was launched in May 2000 with the 1997 vintage. Its style is opulent and fleshy, contrasting with Grange, which is more muscular and assertive. RWT is made from fruit primarily selected for its aromatic qualities and lush texture. The result is a wine that helps to redefine Barossa shiraz at the highest quality level. 

GRAPE VARIETY: Shiraz
VINEYARD REGION: Barossa Valley
WINE ANALYSIS: Alc/Vol: 14.5%, Acidity: 6.9 g/L, pH: 3.58
MATURATION: 15 months in French oak hogsheads (70% new and 30% 1-y.o.)

- 2022 -

Colour
White cherry and cherry pip lead, their fruitiness matched by chocolate undertones. Red and blue fruits come forward — mulberries and red currants — offering a spectrum of berry flavours. These are complemented by grape confection sweetness and the subtle spiciness of pink peppercorns. The structure exhibits both tension and potential; it is coiled, suggesting complexity that will reveal itself over time. Youthful yet layered tannins interplay with fine acidity to ensure each sip is as memorable as the last. A wine that captures the spirit of the Barossa Valley.

Nose
The nose is an array of fragrance and intricate perfumes. French oak is apparent, yet not overtly dominating, imparting an exotic spice that complements blue fruits, notably mulberry. There is an earthy depth, with ironstone adding to the wine's aromatic profile. Layers continue to unfold with espresso and bitter chocolate adding richness, while rhubarb and fermented tea bring a unique edge. The savoury dimension is explored through pepper-crusted beef and fresh fennel notes, alongside a hint of liquorice. A final touch of polished leather rounds out this complex bouquet.

Palate
White cherry and cherry pip lead, their fruitiness matched by chocolate undertones. Red and blue fruits come forward — mulberries and red currants — offering a spectrum of berry flavours. These are complemented by grape confection sweetness and the subtle spiciness of pink peppercorns. The structure exhibits both tension and potential; it is coiled, suggesting complexity that will reveal itself over time. Youthful yet layered tannins interplay with fine acidity to ensure each sip is as memorable as the last. A wine that captures the spirit of the Barossa Valley.