Penfolds Max's Chardonnay 2018

Penfolds Max’s Cabernet Sauvignon 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.

VINTAGE CONDITIONS

2018 VINTAGE

Above-average winter and spring rainfall offered the vines across South Australia healthy soil moisture profiles for the growing season. Cool days and cooler nights slowed vine growth in early spring with temperatures warming in October. Late flowering and veraison delayed harvest by a few weeks. Weather conditions during ripening were generally dry with conditions favouring fully ripened grapes with well-developed colours and flavours.

Light straw in color. Subtle stone fruits, yellow peach, nectarine and faint wafts of citrus are foremost. Upon further swirling, hints of floral notes shine through, Jasmine and white rose petal perfume, and a touch of Ginger spice. Oak is present but in balance and offering a nutty/ nougat nuance. Fresh flavors of stone fruit, citrus and grapefruit pith. Creamy, crème brulee-like French oak lingers with a lovely flinty, wet stone/chalky acid line, closing out with an intriguing waxy phenolic finish.

PENFOLDS MAX'S

Our Max’s tier was introduced in 2016 and pays tribute to our first Chief Winemaker Max Schubert, who dared to revolutionise Australian winemaking. Each wine is polished and charming in character, expressing varietal cues, alluring fruit and structure. They are contemporary and vibrant upon release. They are immediately accessible but not without the assurance of more to come.