Yesterday was a special day — a day dedicated to one of the most captivating red wines in the world—Syrah! And what better way to honor this occasion than by delving into the captivating story of Penfolds Grange, and the remarkable journey of the winery that brought it to life.
The Winery:
In 1844, Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold and Mary established Penfolds winery in South Australia, producing fortified wines for medicinal purposes. Fast forward to the 1950s, and winemaker Max Schubert ambitiously aimed to rival Bordeaux’s best. His dedication resulted in the birth of Penfolds Grange in 1951, transforming Australian winemaking forever. I got the chance to visit their winery and cellar door back in 2019. You can read more about the experience and the winery here.
The Wine:
It was Max Schubert, a visionary winemaker, who truly put Penfolds on the map. In the 1950s, he set out on a quest to create a wine that could rival the finest wines from Bordeaux. Armed with determination and an unwavering passion, he crafted the inaugural vintage of Penfolds Grange in 1951. Despite facing early criticism, Schubert’s vision and artistry laid the foundation for an iconic wine that would leave an indelible mark on the world of wine.
Penfolds Grange — affectionately known as “Grange Hermitage” in the old days. This wine tells a tale of triumph and innovation, where tradition meets audacity. At its core, it is a symphony of Syrah (Shiraz) grapes from the finest vineyards across South Australia.
Each vintage of Penfolds Grange is a poetic reflection of nature’s unpredictable dance. The winemakers artfully select only the most exceptional grapes, handling them with the utmost care. These handpicked gems are then aged in new American oak hogsheads, contributing a delicate spice and allure to the final wine.
The most powerful expression of Penfolds multi-vineyard, multi-district blending philosophy, Grange is arguably Australia’s most celebrated wine and is officially listed as a Heritage Icon of South Australia.
Tasting Notes:
Pouring the wine it reveals a deep crimson hue, exuding aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, dark chocolate, spices, and smoky oak. On the palate, enjoy a velvety blend of black fruits, mocha, licorice, and subtle vanilla, with a luxurious, lingering finish.
The wine’s opulence is a result of its carefully curated blend. With an unbroken line of vintages from the experimental 1951, the wine demonstrates the synergy between shiraz and the soils and climates of South Australia. This harmonious marriage creates a wine that is both bold and refined—a true delight for the discerning palate.
One of the true wonders of Penfolds Grange is its ability to age gracefully. Youthful vintages boast bold tannins and vibrant fruit. Older ones transform into a symphony of elegance and grace, offering layers of complexity that captivate the most discerning palates.
Conclusion:
On this International Syrah Day, let us raise our glasses to Penfolds Grange! A timeless wine that embodies Australia’s winemaking legacy. From its humble beginnings to its rise as an icon, Penfolds Grange has been an emblem of passion, dedication, and innovation in the world of wine.
Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, experiencing Penfolds Grange is like embarking on a journey through time. Each sip is a step closer to understanding the heart and soul of Australian winemaking.
Have you already tasted Penfolds Grange before?
The Author
