Most of the time, you set the dish and then search for a wine.  This time, we reversed course.  I have some unique Penfolds wines that are just coming “of age” and scream out for enjoyment.  So we extended an invitation to local vintner Kief Manning (www.kiefjoshuavineyards.com) to join us for dinner.  Kief spent time in Australia as a budding vintner and winemaker so we thought he might enjoy a couple of Penfolds that even he hadn't sampled. 

Penfolds Cabernet-Shiraz Coonawarra-Barossa Valley Bin 60A, 2004:

If you’re searching for a collectible and potentially legendary Aussie gem, this is it!  With the 1962 serving as the only other such wine ever produced by Penfolds, receiving countless awards as possibly the greatest Australian wine ever produced, the 2004 is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Shiraz.  Undergoing malolactic fermentation and aged in 100% new oak, flavors of blackberry, spiced dark cherry and licorice roll out of the glass, wrapped in an almost sweet and seductive oak blanket.  With tannins, fruit and acidity all in perfect balance and a long finish, this jewel has it all and should age gracefully for the next 6-10 years.  It’s crafted to pair with hefty beef dishes and draw down your bank account to the tune of ~$600.00.