Penfolds Max’s Shiraz Cabernet pays tribute to Max Schubert, the legendary winemaker who created the iconic Penfolds Grange and forever changed Australian wine. Crafted as a contemporary expression of Penfolds’ house style, this blend captures the bold fruit of South Australia while honoring the finesse and structure that define the Penfolds name. It’s a wine that balances power with elegance, approachable today yet built with the same attention to detail that made Penfolds a global benchmark.

Product Details:

Brand: Penfolds | Category: Red Wine (Shiraz Cabernet Blend) | ABV: 14.5% | Origin: Australia (South Australia) | Volume: 750ml

Tasting Profile:

Nose: Vibrant aromas of ripe plum, blackberry, and dark cherry lifted by subtle notes of cedar, spice, and mocha oak.
Palate: Rich and generous. Juicy black fruits and cassis lead into layers of dark chocolate, espresso, and fine-grained tannins. The Shiraz brings plush texture and spice, while Cabernet adds structure and length.
Finish: Long, smooth, and balanced, with lingering notes of vanilla, oak spice, and redcurrant.

Production Details:

Sourced from premium South Australian vineyards, this wine is a classic Penfolds blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are fermented separately to preserve varietal character, then matured in a mix of American and French oak hogsheads to enhance depth and complexity. The result is a polished, fruit-driven wine that reflects both heritage and modern craftsmanship.

Perfect For:

Perfect for pairing with grilled red meats, roast lamb, or aged cheddar. Its balance of fruit and structure also makes it an ideal bottle for gatherings, equally suited for casual dining or celebratory occasions.

Expert Notes:

Wine critics consistently highlight Max’s Shiraz Cabernet for its balance of fruit intensity and sophistication, calling it a modern classic in the Penfolds portfolio. It embodies the approachable luxury Penfolds is known for, generous in flavor, seamless in structure.

Customer Reviews:

“Beautifully balanced, fruit forward yet refined.”  Alex W.
“Classic Penfolds. Smooth tannins and that signature dark fruit richness.”   Maria T.
“Always dependable, always delicious, perfect for dinner parties.”   Greg L.

Interesting Fact:

Max Schubert, Penfolds’ first Chief Winemaker, secretly developed Grange in the 1950s despite being ordered to stop production. His persistence not only created Australia’s most famous wine but also laid the foundation for Penfolds’ modern philosophy, innovation guided by tradition.

Serving Suggestions:

For the best experience, decant for 30–45 minutes before serving to open up its fruit and spice layers. Serve at 16–18°C alongside roasted meats or chargrilled vegetables. For a lighter pairing, enjoy with a platter of aged cheese and dark chocolate.

Winery Background:

Founded in 1844 in South Australia, Penfolds is one of the most prestigious names in global winemaking. Known for blending precision, innovation, and heritage, Penfolds produces wines that stand the test of time. The Max’s collection honors the pioneering vision of Max Schubert, wines that embody his belief that great wine should be both enjoyable today and worthy of tomorrow.