Shiraz Cabernet Koonunga Hill "76" 2021

One's mind is immediately transported to the other side of the world when uncorking (or rather opening, as it is sealed with a screw cap) this interesting bottle. To a sunny and fascinating land, where warmth and sunshine are the protagonists. Penfolds' Koonunga Hill 76 is the purest expression of Australia's oenology, made from Shiraz for the most part and Cabernet Sauvignon for the rest. Grapes from the southernmost part of the big island continent, between Barossa, McLaren and Wrattonbully. Koonunga Hill 76 was born in 2006, thirty years after the birth of another of the winery's iconic wines, Claret, which was launched in 1976. In this case, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon perfectly complement each other, resulting in an excellent wine. Traditionally vinified in stainless steel, the wine matures in oak barrels, part French and part American, for a period of about 10 months. Bright and lively red in colour, the nose is intense and spicy, with notes of plum and dark fruit, sweet spices and hints of chocolate. The wood is there, and you can feel it, but it is not at all annoying. On the contrary, it adds a touch of elegance that does not hurt. In the mouth it is well balanced, medium-bodied, with tannins and acidity in good evidence, revealing a discreet aging potential. Game or grilled red meats. This wine is not afraid of comparison with practically anything.