97 Points Robert Parker
It’s not known exactly when the Kalimna Block 42 was planted but there are suggestions that the vines existed during the latter part of the 19th Century. They could be the oldest Cabernet vines in the world, although the famous Metala Cabernet vineyard in Langhorne Creek was known to have been planted in 1891 so could very well pre-date Kalimna. Regardless, I’ve been there and the vines are truly old. Only very rarely does Penfolds release this as a single vineyard wine, when the Cabernet is so fabulous it can’t possibly be blended. The 2004 Block 42 Kalimna Cabernet Sauvignon was such a vintage. Matured in 100% new American hogsheads for 13 months, it displays a very deep garnet-purple color and profoundly earthy / gamey aromas over black cherry preserves, creme de cassis plus scents of leather, pencil shavings, Mediterranean herbs, black truffles, underbrush and black olives. The elegant, medium-bodied palate is tightly-knit and led by structure with a high level of grainy tannins, very high acid and a long earthy finish. Approachable now, it should continue to evolve and drink to 2025+.
Source: Robert Parker (Robert Parker Wine Advocate) by Lisa Perrotti-Brown. December, 2010
97 Points Hooke
Amazingly saturated deep purple-red colour, astonishing nose of meaty superripe fruit, not especially cabbish and certainly not at all leafy. Astonishing power and density, structure and fleshiness. Amazing wine indeed. A blockbuster. Great wine, and only a modest 13.5% alcohol. Drink in five years and until 40+ years.
Huon Hooke, The Real Review. September, 2007
94 Points Real Review
Supple wine with appealing sweet fruit. Quite a ripe and moderately elegant Cabernet Sauvignon with hints of berry, chocolate and a touch of herbs
Bob Campbell, The Real Review. February, 2012