Penfolds recorking clinic returns to UK

(TheDrinksBusiness) - Penfolds head winemaker Peter Gago has confirmed a plan to bring the Australian producer’s famous recorking clinic to London for the first time since 2008.

The free service allows owners of any Penfolds red wine aged 15 years or more to register an appointment with the brand’s winemaking team, who will check the wine’s condition and top up its level where necessary.

The team carries out these clinics every two years in Australia’s major cities – the domestic market remains Penfolds’ largest – as well as other key countries around the world.

However, Gago admitted to the drinks business: “We have been a bit remiss in London,” as he confirmed that a clinic is now planned for “late October,” although a precise date and location are yet to be announced.

In total, since Penfolds began the recorking scheme in 1991, which are usually organised in partnership with local auction houses, Gago estimated that he and his winemaking team have recorked and certified around 120,000 bottles.

As evidence of the popularity of these clinics, Gago recalled recorking 544 bottles during a single day in Singapore. Meanwhile recent events in Sydney and Melbourne both involved eight winemakers over a three-day period.