Penfolds

Penfolds is one of Australia's oldest and most iconic wineries, with a history deeply entwined with the evolution of the Australian wine industry itself. Founded in 1844 by Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold, an English physician who migrated to Australia, the winery was established at the Magill Estate, near Adelaide in South Australia. Dr. Penfold planted vine cuttings he had brought from France on the slopes surrounding the stone cottage he built with his wife, Mary Penfold. Initially, their intention was to produce fortified wines for medicinal purposes, a common practice of the time. However, over the decades, Penfolds transitioned to become a pioneer in Australian winemaking, focusing on table wines and setting standards for quality and innovation in the industry.

With significant influence in winemaking practices globally, Penfolds leads with innovative vineyard management and embraces multi-regional sourcing to highlight Australia's varied terroirs. Celebrated for its exemplary wines and named among the world's top brands, Penfolds honors its heritage and Max Schubert's vision, securing its role as a leader in the international wine domain.

The creation of the iconic Penfolds Grange:

The turning point in Penfolds' history came in the post-war era under the guidance of Max Schubert, Penfolds' first Chief Winemaker. After a trip to Europe in 1950, Schubert was inspired to create an Australian wine that could rival the quality and ageing potential of the fine Bordeaux wines. This ambition led to the creation of Penfolds Grange. Initially called Grange Hermitage, it was a wine crafted from Shiraz (Syrah) and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon, intended to age for decades. The first vintage, produced in 1951, faced scepticism and lukewarm reception from the management and the public. However, Schubert persisted covertly with the support of colleagues, and by the 1960s, the quality and potential of Grange were undeniable.

Today, Penfolds Grange holds an almost mythical status among wine enthusiasts and collectors around the world. It symbolizes excellence in Australian winemaking and has been the recipient of countless awards and honours. Grange is known for its rich concentration, complexity, and remarkable capacity for ageing, evolving beautifully over many decades. Not merely a wine, Grange has become an Australian cultural icon, celebrated for its heritage, craftsmanship, and the vision of Penfolds' winemakers.

The Penfolds Range:

Beyond Grange, Penfolds has developed a diverse portfolio of wines expressing different terroir and philosophies.

Penfolds Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay:

The Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay represents Penfolds' pursuit of white wine perfection. Known as 'White Grange,' it's a modern classic, crafted from select cool-climate regions, radiating sophistication with its elegant, mineral-driven notes and balanced execution.

Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon:

Bin 707 is Penfolds' flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, akin to the stature of Grange among red varietals. It boasts a bold structure, ripe tannins, and a vibrant core of cassis and oak – a true reflection of Penfolds' mastery in crafting exceptional Cabernet.

Penfolds Bin 798 RWT Shiraz:

The RWT (Red Winemaking Trial) Bin 798 Shiraz focuses on the Barossa Valley’s terroir. It contrasts Grange with its opulent, rich fruit and French oak influence, offering a plush, modern expression while maintaining the signature Penfolds sophistication and power.

Penfolds Bin 169 Cabernet Sauvignon:

Bin 169 Cabernet Sauvignon is a contemporary Penfolds expression, sourced solely from Coonawarra's eminent terra rossa soil. This limited wine is coveted for its pure varietal character, pronounced cassis and mint, and fine-grained tannins, reflecting its prestigious terroir.

Penfolds St Henri Shiraz:

Distinctly unique within the Penfolds range, St Henri Shiraz forgoes new oak to highlight the purity of Shiraz. Aged in large, old vats, it's mellow and rich with plush textures and aromatic fruit. It's a classic, elegant style with a reputation for graceful ageing.