Penfolds Max’s Shiraz Cabernet is a tribute to former Chief Winemaker Max Schubert 1948-1975, a legend in Penfolds history. Max’s constant pursuit of excellence paved the way for those who followed in his footsteps and also allowed the status and heritage of Penfolds to grow. A more approachable Penfolds style at release – ideally shelf to glass, save the cellar.

The South East growing districts of South Australia enjoyed above average winter rainfall, while McLaren Vale recorded well below average. September temperatures were cool with little rainfall resulting in some isolated frost events. Summer was generally hot, with high temperatures delaying veraison. Irrigation was crucial to keep vines in good health. The proximity of the Southern Ocean played an important role in moderating temperatures allowing for a high quality harvest, albeit with smaller yields than average.

TASTING NOTES:

COLOR: Plum core with strawberry brightness at the rim

NOSE: Notes of graphite and heady varnish to the fore. A distinctive blue-fruited elegance and gorgeous cranberry sweetness. An aromatic kaleidoscope of vanilla sponge, cannoli creaminess, asphalt, wet slate, juniper and pink peppercorn.

PALATE: A salinity – perhaps best described as salted plum? Coolness/flowing texture. Spearmint tea (fresh leaves) and lavender. Graphite from the nose continues as a theme on the palate, Black olive tapenade. Ylang Ylang, powdery-style tannins that are tapered on the palate. All clearly converging to a well-defined point.