Penfolds stands as a pioneering force in the world of winemaking, tracing its illustrious heritage back to its inception in 1844 under the visionary guidance of Dr. Christopher and Mary Penfold. The company's unwavering success unfolds through the annals of history, propelled by a lineage of trailblazing winemakers who have fearlessly propelled the brand to extraordinary and audacious heights.
Mary Penfold's tenure at the helm bore witness to years of unyielding dedication and relentless experimentation, as she fearlessly explored new horizons in wine production. In 1948, Max Schubert assumed the role of the company's first Chief Winemaker, marking a transformative era in Penfolds' journey. Max's audacious pursuit of crafting enduring wines reached its zenith in the 1950s with the birth of Penfolds Grange. It wasn't long before accolades and medals began to pour in, cementing Grange's status as one of the world's most revered wines.
In 2012, Penfolds unveiled its most groundbreaking project to date, releasing 12 meticulously handcrafted ampoules of the rare 2004 Kalimna Block Cabernet Sauvignon, a testament to their ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence. Today, Penfolds stands as a torchbearer of the philosophies and legends that have guided the company's extraordinary journey since its establishment in 1844, symbolizing an enduring legacy of uncompromising dedication to the art of winemaking.
In its youthful stage, this wine, adorned in a deep garnet-purple robe, offers a striking presentation of blackberry preserves, interwoven with the subtle yet enticing layers of cassis, black cherry, a hint of spice box, and delightful nuances of char-grilled meat and a treasure chest of chocolates. Surprisingly, while it exudes a rich and full-bodied fragrance, the palate experience unveils a more reserved disposition, with flavors that elegantly embrace a sense of containment. These tightly-wound elements are framed by firm and substantial tannins, carving a path towards a finish that is both earthy and enduring, promising a future of evolving allure.