PENFOLDS Grange Hermitage Shiraz 1968

Robert Parker Score: 86 points

Reviewer: Robert M. Parker, Jr. — 10031 Aug 1995

Production: 5,560 cases Blend: 95% Shiraz/5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Although this was considered to be one of the lightest Grange Hermitages, the wine spent more time in oak casks (20 rather than 16-18 months) than in any other vintage in an effort by the late Max Schubert to fatten the wine. It would appear his gamble did not pay off, as this is the most mediocre wine in the Grange Hermitage portfolio. The wine is clumsy from beginning to end, with dusty, coarse tannin, fading fruit, a hole in the middle, and an austere finish. The great opulence, flesh, lavishly rich fruit, and thick texture for which Grange is famous is nowhere to be found.
Note: The production figures shown are for twelve bottle cases unless otherwise noted.