Producer Profile
Penfolds
Penfolds is arguably Australia’s most renowned producer of fine wine, mostly known for their flagship wine, Grange. This historic estate has been a pioneer of the Australian wine industry since their conception in the mid-19th Century. They have never rested on their laurels, as they continue their path of innovation and growth – resulting in uncompromising quality and exciting wines.
The estate was founded in Adelaide in 1844 by Christopher Penfold, alongside his wife Mary Penfold. They emigrated from Sussex, England, and upon their arrival, purchased 200 hectares of land with the aim of producing medicinal wines. They initially produced fortified wines in the style of Sherry and Port, but later expanded to table wines, and later their renowned blends.
They have a long-standing reputation for their excellent portfolio of wines, namely their ‘bin’ wines which feature various grape varieties, simply named after their storage locations. Some of their most famous include 707, 389 and 407. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz have become their most significant grape varieties.
During the 1950s, Max Schubert’s role became instrumental in transforming Penfolds’ global position. His development of Grange, which was originally called Grange Hermitage. His ideas for the blend were originally rejected by the board, despite this, he continued his research and experiments – and eventually won the over. In 1988, he was named Decanter Man of the Year, and he was recognised for creating one of the world’s most revered wines.
The company has extensive vineyard holdings across South Australia, with some of these situated in the region’s most famous growing areas; including Magill Estate and Koonunga Hills. Penfolds were revolutionary in their approach to blending different plots and varieties to produce wines of unparalleled balance and depth.
