There are no results that match your search.
Wine • 7 min • 30.05.2023
Penfolds Wine: Reviewing an Australian Icon in the World of Fine Wines
In the world of winemaking, few names hold as much prestige and reverence as Penfolds. established in 1844 in the Magill Estate nestled in Adelaide. This picturesque valley of South Australia was the birthplace of the Penfolds Grange series, prided as one of Australia's "First Growth" wines.
While the brand started in 1844 with the simple intent of producing sherry and port for medicinal purposes, it was soon discovered that clarets and rieslings were in popular demand! As Dr. Christopher's medical practice started taking up more of his time, it fell on Mary's shoulders to tend to the growing wine business.
Under her guidance, the winery bloomed, and it’s estimated that at the time of Dr. Christopher's passing in 1870, the winery had expanded to over 60 acres, with an extensive range of red and white wines.
The Poor Start of Penfolds Wine
Penfolds grange, thought to be Australia's flagship wine, was first made as an experiment by winemaker Max Schubert in an attempt to marry winemaking techniques he observed in Bordeaux with the syrah grape variety, with the aim to produce an Australian red wine able to rival the finest Bordeaux wines in aging potential and quality.
The first batch was produced in 1951 and was largely given away, with the first commercial batch released in 1952. Unfortunately, it was not well received and discontinued due to the predominant popularity of fortified wines. Schubert continued production in secret, and by 1959, the initial batch (1951) was beginning to show its true potential. Schubert was instructed to restart production, and today, the grange series has become a true icon of Australian wine history, with the 1955 vintage winning over 50 gold medals worldwide to date!
The Process of Creating Penfolds Wine
Penfolds' winemaking involves a meticulous process that oversees every aspect, from vineyard management to fermentation and aging. With vineyards spreading as far as the sun-drenched vineyards of Barossa Valley, where shiraz thrives, to the cool-climate regions of Adelaide Hills, which offer ideal conditions for chardonnay and pinot noir, Penfolds sources grapes from diverse terroirs.
The rich tapestry of vineyard sources is a testament to their commitment to showcasing the very best that Australian terroir has to offer, allowing the winemakers to embrace a fruit-first approach, focusing on capturing the essence of the grapes in its optimal growing conditions and expressing the distinctiveness of each vineyard.
This approach, combined with Schubert’s winemaking techniques, has resulted in harmonious and complex wines that showcase the best attributes of the grape varietals, allowing the wines to achieve balance, structure, and depth.
The Eye, Nose, and Palate
Within the diverse range of Penfolds wines, several labels have gained particular acclaim for their exceptional quality and appeal:
Penfolds Grange Bin 95 Shiraz
- Appearance: Deep crimson with hints of purple
- Nose: Complex aromas of blackberry, plum, licorice, and exotic spices
- Taste: Full-bodied and concentrated, with rich dark fruit flavours, integrated oak, and velvety tannins
- Finish: Long and persistent, leaving a lingering impression of ripe fruit and spice
Penfolds Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon
- Appearance: Deep garnet hue with a youthful rim
- Nose: Fragrant bouquet of blackcurrant, mint, and cedar, with subtle notes of eucalyptus
- Taste: Medium to full-bodied, showcasing ripe black fruit, well-integrated oak, and firm tannins
- Finish: Smooth and elegant, with a lingering herbal and fruit-driven finish
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz
- Appearance: Dark ruby red with purple hues
- Nose: Aromas of blackberry, cassis, vanilla, and a touch of mocha
- Taste: Full-bodied and robust, with ripe berry flavours, integrated oak, and fine-grained tannins
- Finish: Lingering and balanced, with hints of spice and a touch of chocolate
Penfolds Bin Series A Chardonnay
- Appearance: Pale straw colour with greenish hues
- Nose: Aromas of white peach, citrus, toasted almond, and subtle floral notes
- Taste: Medium to full-bodied, showcasing flavours of stone fruit, lemon curd, and vanilla
- Finish: Crisp and refreshing, with a long and clean finish
Penfolds RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz
- Appearance: Deep magenta with a bright ruby rim
- Nose: Intense aromas of blackberry, blueberry, violets, and hints of spice
- Taste: Full-bodied and rich, with layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and well-integrated oak
- Finish: Silky and smooth, with fine-grained tannins and a lingering dark fruit finish
Final Verdict: Is Penfolds Wine Worth the Money?
Penfolds represent the pinnacle of Australian winemaking, its quality and craftsmanship having stood the test of time. While some wines within the range command higher prices due to their high quality and rarity, Penfolds offers a range of options that is diverse enough for various budgets and preferences, ensuring that both wine collectors and casual drinkers can find a bottle that suits their tastes and needs without compromising on quality or price.
Penfolds FAQs
What makes Penfolds wine unique?
Penfold wines embody the essence of Australian winemaking, combining meticulous craftsmanship with a deep appreciation for the terroir. Its flagship wine, Penfolds Grange, holds the distinction of being heritage-listed in South Australia, representing the brand's unparalleled quality and legacy.
Is Penfolds wine expensive?
While Penfolds has some premium wines that command higher prices, the brand offers a diverse range of wines with varying price points. Most Penfolds wines are moderately priced, allowing wine enthusiasts to explore the brand's offerings without breaking the bank.
What do the numbers in Penfolds wines' names mean?
The numbers in the names of many Penfolds wines, such as Bin 407 or Bin 389, signify batch identification numbers. These numbers help distinguish different blends and vintages within the Penfolds range, enabling wine connoisseurs to track and appreciate the brand's ongoing commitment to consistent quality.
To write the comment please Log In / Sign up first
