The 2010 Grange arrives with much expectation and does not disappoint. This is a powerhouse, structurally superior to both the 2009 and 2008 vintages and breathtakingly dense, long and precise. The nose has cola, blackberry, vanillin, hard brown spices of all kinds, coal smoke, meaty charcuterie elements and a strong tarry, savory note that speaks of the 85% Barossa Valley componentry. The palate has super deep tannins that fan out through flavorsome black fruits. These are purposeful tannins - they bristle on the palate, tantalizing and assertive yet playful; strong not aggressive. The power here is the thing: This has mouth-coating density and terrific drive, so tightly coiled, it gives enough away to suggest a very, very long cellaring wine is here. This is a classic Grange that will please the serious collectors. A wine of genuine pedigree. Drink in 2026.James Suckling | 100 JSWith its veritable vortex of rich but dynamic blackberry and blood-plum, exotic satsuma lift, creamy praline oak and supple tannins of deep-pile velvet, this is a sumptuous wine to sink into - a bottomless pit. Hints of sarsaparilla and tar lend savoury nuance. This oozes confidence and charm. Sourced from Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and Magill Estate, it spent 17 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads. Drinking Window 2018 - 2045Decanter | 99 DECThe 2010 Grange is a 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 96% Shiraz blend made from Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and Magill Estate fruit that was aged 17 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads. Very deep purple-black in color, this is classic Grange - amongst the finest produced - replete with fresh, vibrant and youthful black fruit notes showing some blueberry aromas and accents of camphor, anise and the slightest floral hint plus a whiff of oak in the background to lend a cedar-laced lift to this textbook Shiraz nose. Medium to full-bodied in the mouth, it is very taut and finely constructed showing typically firm, grainy, uniform tannins, great concentration and wonderful persistence on the finish. If I have any very slight complaint of this near perfect wine it is that it seems a little too clinical and appears to speak less of the land and the heart of South Australia and more of the very skilled winemaking than did the Grange from the magical 2008 vintage.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 99 RPThis inky, embryonic wine deserves to be cellared until at least 2025 and should drink well for at least 25 years after that. It takes its time opening up in the glass to reveal notes of grilled meat, vanilla and plum. In the mouth, it's full bodied and firmly built, with a wall of chewy tannins surrounding a deep ripe core.Wine Enthusiast | 99 WEFocused, elegant, powerful and layered, exhibiting plum, currant, floral, spice and coffee flavors that come together seamlessly and persist on the long, complex finish. This has presence and deftness in equal measure, with well-integrated tannins. Best from 2018 through 2030. 371 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 98 WSPeter Gago is excited about the 2010 Grange, having followed it through a moderate, relatively dry growing season, then shepherding his best lots of shiraz through the end of their fermentation and extended aging in new American oak hogsheads. The fruit is a blend from Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Magill Estate, delivering powerful richness and deep intensity without any perception of alcohol. American oak provides an accent, dominated by the fruit concentration that brings its own herbal spice. The volatility that lifts that spice is a trademark of Max Schubert’s winemaking style, and adds to the detail that develops as this turns into a grand wine. More accessible than many Grange releases, this presents a sleek and sophisticated composure rather than the fireworks that often accompany a young Grange. It should age beautifully.Wine & Spirits | 94 W&S
