The rich textures of Penfolds Grange have developed a lasting aftertaste with the irresistible hint of political blood, as a humble charity auction discovered on Wednesday.
The School for Life Foundation landed itself in the midst of NSW's political scandal when it emailed its newsletter telling supporters about the items for auction at its upcoming black tie ball.
Among them was a bottle of Penfold's Grange signed by the Prime Minister, Tony Abbott.
"He actually was the minister for health and ageing when he signed it," School for Life Foundation founder Annabelle Chauncy said.
Ms Chauncy said she received a flurry of emails after the newsletter was sent out asking about the 1991 vintage.
Two people, who would prefer to remain anonymous, from the Lions Club of Sydney Chinese Inc, donated the signed bottle to the Foundation, which helps provide education to children in Uganda.
"He [Mr Abbott] hasn't signed it for us," Ms Chauncy said.
NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell resigned on Wednesday after being caught out over his evidence to a corruption inquiry.
He had denied receiving a $3000 bottle of Penfolds Grange Hermitage from Nick Di Girolamo, but a handwritten note tendered to the Independent Commission Against Corruption showed he did.
Bidding on the School for Life's 1991 vintage starts at $1200.
smh.com.au
