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Penfolds
Penfolds
from Wikipedia

Penfolds is an Australian wine producer that was founded in Adelaide in 1844 by Christopher Rawson Penfold, an English physician who emigrated to Australia, and his wife Mary Penfold.[1] It is one of Australia's oldest wineries, and is currently part of Treasury Wine Estates. Its most famous wine is Penfolds Grange.

Key Information

The chief winemaker since 2002 has been Peter Gago.[2][3]

History

[edit]

Arrival of Penfolds in Australia

[edit]

Christopher and Mary Penfold arrived in Australia from Angmering, West Sussex, UK, at the respective ages of 33 and 24,[4][1] in June 1844.[4]

Following their arrival, they were supported by family members in the attainment of the 500 acres (200 ha) Magill (originally "Mackgill") Estate at the foot of the Mount Lofty Ranges. As part of the cultivation of the land surrounding the cottage that the couple built (named "The Grange"), French grape vine cuttings that had been brought from England were planted.[1]

Christopher was a believer in the medicinal benefits of wine, and both he and Mary planned to concoct a wine tonic for the treatment of anaemia; Christopher had set up his practice on the eastern outskirts of Adelaide, South Australia.[5]

Establishment of winery

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Initially, the Penfolds produced fortified wines in the style of sherry and port for Christopher's patients. As demand for the wines increased, the winery was expanded and was officially established in 1844. In addition to sherry and port, the Penfolds discovered that clarets and rieslings were both easy to produce and popular. As the demand for Christopher's medical services increased, Mary was required to devote more time to the operation of the winery, and her tasks included the cultivation of the vines and grape blending.[1][5] Mary assumed the running of the winery after her husband died in 1870 at the age of 59. According to one historical account, by the time of Christopher's death the business had "grown to over 60 acres with several different grape varieties including grenache, verdelho, mataro (mourvedre), frontignac and pedro ximenez", and the estate was "producing both sweet and dry red and white table wines with a growing market in the eastern Australian colonies of Victoria and New South Wales."[citation needed] At this time,[when?] the Penfolds' son-in-law, Thomas Francis Hyland, was unaware of Mary's fundamental role at the winery, and he urged his mother-in-law to sell the business as preparation for her retirement.[citation needed] Mary did not accept Hyland's advice, and eventually brokered a partnership agreement that resulted in Hyland remaining in Melbourne, while Mary continued her work at the winery in Adelaide.[1]

Death of Christopher Penfold

[edit]

A journalist reported in 1874, four years after the death of Christopher Penfold, that Mary blended "the wines when they are two or three years old", a process that "is done under Mrs Penfold's personal supervision, not in conformity with any fixed and definite rule, but entirely according to her judgement and taste". The reporter stated that there was "about 20,000 gallons of wine of that age ready for the market", with a "total stock ... close upon 90,000 gallons".[citation needed] During her tenure, Mary engaged in experimentation, explored new methods of wine production, looked into ways of combating diseases like phylloxera, and engaged a cellar master by the name of Joseph Gillard.

Retirement of Mary Penfold

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Mary retired in 1884, aged 68; at that time the winery owned about a third of all of South Australia's wine stores, and had presented at a colonial exhibition in London.[1]

Following Mary's retirement, her daughter Georgina, and son-in-law Thomas Hyland, assumed responsibility for the day-to-day running of the winery. Subsequently, the business was passed on to their two sons and two daughters.[5] Mary died in 1896,[1]

Gladys Penfold Hyland

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Gladys Penfold Hyland became the chair of the board in 1948 after her husband died. Under her leadership the company's reputation for creating fine wines increased as she backed Max Schubert as he developed the Grange wine. She led the board until 1962 when the company went public. Gladys was a director until 1963.[6] The Penfold family retained a controlling interest until 1976.[citation needed]

Early 20th Century

[edit]

In 1903, Penfolds was the largest winery in the Adelaide region, with a production total of 450,000 litres (120,000 US gal) of wine. Between 1904 and 1912, more vineyards in McLaren Vale and New South Wales were purchased.[7]

During the 1940s and 1950s, the company changed its focus and commenced the production of table wines to accommodate changing tastes. This new direction led to experiments by Penfolds' chief winemaker, Max Schubert, who backed by the chair of the board visited Europe following the end of World War II to learn about sherry production;[6] however, it was the time spent by Schubert in Bordeaux that eventually led to the production of Penfolds' and Australia's most famous wine, "Grange Hermitage", later renamed "Grange". In the 1960s the company introduced a series of red wines: Bin 389, Bin 707, Bin 28 and Bin 128, that became the highlights of the Penfolds brand.[8]

Tooth and Co.

[edit]

In 1976, control of Penfolds was acquired by Tooth and Co., a brewer based in New South Wales, which in 1982 became part of the Adelaide Steamship Company Group. In 1990, SA Brewing purchased Adelaide Steamship's wineries. Subsequently, SA Brewing was divided into three separate entities: the brewing assets retained the S.A. Brewing name, the wine assets were named Southcorp Wines, and the 'white goods' and other manufacturing interests became Southcorp, an Australian conglomerate.[9] It was also in 1976 that Schubert stood down from the position of Penfolds Chief Winemaker, a role that was passed onto Don Ditter.[8]

In 1977, Penfolds began what was to be an almost twenty-year association with Sydney-based rugby league team, the St George Dragons as the club's primary sponsor. This association saw the Dragons play five 'home' games at the Adelaide Oval between 1991 and 1995, with the 1991 game attracting 28,884 fans. The Dragons, with Penfolds as their sponsor, would win the Sydney premiership in 1977 and 1979, while appearing in the 1985, 1992 and 1993 Grand Finals. Penfolds ended their association with St George at the end of 1995.

Southcorp Wines became a part of the Foster's Group in 2005. In 2011, Fosters Group shareholders voted to demerge the wine operations from the brewing operations, and form two separate companies; Foster's wine business became Treasury Wine Estates (TWE). Headquartered in Melbourne, it was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and began operating as a standalone company on 9 May 2011.[10]

Since then, Penfolds operates two wineries: Magill Estate, at the base of Adelaide's eastern foothills,[11] and Nuriootpa in the Barossa Valley.[12]

In June 2012 Penfolds released a limited edition run of the "2004 Block 42" wine that was only sold in glass ampoules. The wine was labelled by the Huffington Post publication as "the most expensive wine directly sold from a winery in the world", as the winery sought US$168,000 for each of the ampoules. The glass ampoules were designed and hand-blown by Australian glass artist Nick Mount.[13]

Vineyards

[edit]
Magill Estate Kitchen, Magill

Penfolds operates a number of vineyards in the South Australian wine regions that produce a wide range of grape varieties:

  • Adelaide
    • Magill Estate (5.34 hectares (13.2 acres)) – shiraz[11]
  • Barossa Valley
    • Kalimna (290 hectares (720 acres)-property, 153 hectares (380 acres) under vine) – shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, mataro (mourvèdre), eight rows of sangiovese[14]
    • Koonunga Hill (93 hectares (230 acres)) – shiraz, cabernet sauvignon[15]
    • Waltons (317 hectares (780 acres), 130 hectares (320 acres) planted) – shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, mataro (mourvèdre)[16]
    • Stonewell (33 hectares (82 acres)) – shiraz, cabernet sauvignon[12][17]
  • Eden Valley
    • Woodbury (69.56 hectares (171.9 acres))[18]
  • McLaren Vale (141 hectares (350 acres) across four vineyards) – shiraz, grenache and cabernet sauvignon[19]
  • Coonawarra (close to 50 hectares (120 acres)) – mainly cabernet sauvignon and shiraz[20]

Trademark registration

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First used in 1923, the Penfolds logo is one of Australia's most recognised trademarks.[21] Eight Penfolds wines were named by the Langtons auction house in its 2012 list of the top 20 most-desired brands.[22]

Awards

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In 2013 Penfolds was awarded "New World Winery of the Year" by American wine industry publication, Wine Enthusiast Magazine.[23]

In 2016, Penfolds was named the Most Admired Wine Brand by Drinks International.[24]

Penfolds Grange was classified as a First Growth in Liv-ev's 2017 recreation of the Bordeaux 1855 classification.[25]

The only Australian winery to receive a perfect score from both Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate for the same vintage (Grange 2008).[24]

Grange 1955 was named one of the Top 12 Wines of the 20th Century by Wine Spectator.[26]

Causes

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In 2012, Penfolds listed as a partner of the (RED) campaign, together with Nike, Girl, American Express and Converse. The campaign's mission is to prevent the transmission of the HIV virus from mother to child by 2015. The campaign's byline is "Fighting For An AIDS Free Generation".[27][needs update]

Penfold family

[edit]

Christopher Rawson Penfold

[edit]

Mary Penfold

[edit]
  • Wife of Christopher Penfold.
  • Became fundamental in the development of the winery after the demands upon Christopher's medical practice increased.
  • Assumed responsibility of the winery following Christopher's death.

Thomas Francis Hyland

[edit]
  • Son-in-law who married the Penfolds' daughter Georgina.
  • Continued to run the wine business with Georgina after Mary's retirement.

Inez Penfold Hyland

[edit]
  • Granddaughter who was sent to live with her grandmother Mary Penfold. Assumed responsibility of the business with her siblings after it was passed on to them by Georgina and Thomas.

Street names in Rosslyn Park

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  • Grange Avenue: named after the Penfolds' family cottage
  • Hyland Terrace: named after Thomas Hyland
  • Inez Court: named after Inez Penfold Hyland
  • Mary Penfold Drive: named after Mary Penfold
  • Penfold Road: named after Mary and Christopher Penfold
  • Rawson Penfold Drive: named after Christopher Rawson Penfold

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Penfolds is an producer founded in 1844 by English physician Dr. Christopher Penfold and his wife Mary at Magill Estate in the foothills of , initially to produce medicinal tonics from their vineyard plantings of and other varieties brought from . The company quickly expanded into fortified and table wines. Following Christopher's death in 1870, under Mary's leadership until her retirement in 1884, Penfolds produced one-third of the region's wine output; by 1907, it had become 's largest winery. Penfolds gained international acclaim in the mid-20th century through innovative , particularly the creation of its flagship Penfolds Grange in 1951 by chief winemaker Max Schubert, a powerful Shiraz-dominant red blend that defied initial company opposition and established Penfolds as a benchmark for Australian fine wine. The winery's philosophy emphasizes multi-regional blending from premium South Australian sites like and McLaren Vale, combined with American oak maturation, to achieve consistency, complexity, and longevity in its wines, a practice pioneered by Schubert and continued by successors. Beyond its core Australian portfolio, Penfolds has innovated with limited releases like the rare g3 Grange blend and expanded internationally, planting heritage vines in in 1998 and launching Penfolds-labeled wines from there in 2020, blending Australian and styles. Part of since 2011, Penfolds remains a global luxury brand as of 2025, with Grange consistently earning perfect scores from critics and commanding auction prices exceeding $100,000 for vintage bottles, while upholding a 180-year legacy of experimentation and quality.

History

Founding and Early Development

Christopher Rawson Penfold, an English physician born in 1811, emigrated to in 1844 with his wife Mary and their four-year-old daughter Georgina, arriving aboard the Taglioni on 18 June. The family sought new opportunities in the colony, where Penfold planned to continue his medical practice while pursuing agricultural ventures, motivated in part by a deposit paid to the Colonial Land and Emigration Commission. Upon arrival, they purchased a 500-acre (202-hectare) property known as The Grange in the Magill district, approximately 6.4 km east of , for £1,200; the land had previously been held by Robert Cook and William Ferguson and included 200 acres already under crops. Penfold, who believed wine could serve as a medicament for treating anaemia, established the in 1844–1845 by planting vine cuttings he had brought from France's wine-growing districts, focusing on varieties suitable for , , claret, and . The initial focus was on producing fortified wines such as and , along with tonics and brandies, primarily for use in Penfold's medical practice as health remedies. Mary Penfold, self-taught in , played a key role in overseeing the blending processes from the outset. By the , the operations expanded significantly, with plantings increasing to support growing production demands. Christopher Penfold's health deteriorated in later years due to the physical demands of managing the vineyard alongside his medical work, leading to his death on 26 March 1870 at The Grange, aged 58, after a prolonged illness. Following his passing, leadership of the winery transitioned to Mary Penfold, who continued to guide its operations and growth into the late . By 1871, the winery's stock had reached 107,000 gallons, reflecting the foundational success established in the preceding decades.

Expansion in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries

Following the death of her husband in 1870, Mary Penfold assumed leadership of the winery, directing its operations with a focus on expanding production beyond medicinal tonics to include table wines such as clarets and rieslings. Under her stewardship, Penfolds diversified into popular table wines that appealed to local consumers, marking a shift from the initial emphasis on fortified wines and brandies. In 1893, the winery achieved its first international exports to , establishing Penfolds as a growing player in global markets and contributing to South Australia's burgeoning wine industry. Mary Penfold retired in 1884, having overseen significant growth that positioned Penfolds as the producer of one-third of all wine in ; management then passed to her daughter Georgina and son-in-law Thomas Hyland, who continued family involvement in operations. In the 1890s, under ongoing family guidance, Penfolds introduced dry red wines, including the acclaimed No. 1 Claret, which by 1894 was recognized as one of the colony's finest dry reds alongside the Chablis white. Mary herself received a trophy in 1890 at the Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Show in for her pioneering "Best White Wine of Light Character," highlighting innovations in lighter white styles using varieties like frontignac and . Into the early 20th century, led family succession, overseeing further expansions including vineyard acquisitions between 1904 and 1912 in McLaren Vale and , with additional lands secured in 1914 to enhance production capacity. By 1907, Penfolds had become South Australia's largest winery, sustaining growth despite the disruptions of , such as labor shortages and supply chain challenges. The Prohibition era in the United States (1920–1933) presented opportunities for medicinal wine exports, allowing Penfolds to tap into international demand for permitted alcohol uses. By the , annual production had reached 100,000 cases, reflecting the winery's robust scale under continued family leadership.

Creation of Grange and Mid-20th Century Innovations

In 1948, Max Schubert was appointed as Penfolds' first Chief Winemaker, a role in which he would transform the company's approach to premium red winemaking. Inspired by a 1950 visit to , where he observed the aging potential of fine reds, Schubert sought to create an Australian equivalent using Shiraz grapes, adapting blending techniques to multi-regional sourcing from areas like the , McLaren Vale, and . He secretly began experimenting with this concept, producing the first vintage of what would become Grange in 1951, matured in 100% new American oak barrels to impart structure and longevity—a pioneering practice that contrasted with traditional European oak usage. This innovation built on the stable foundations established by the Penfold family in the preceding century. The initial Grange releases were experimental and largely distributed informally, but by 1957, a company tasting panel rejected the wine as uncommercial, leading the board to order Schubert to cease production. Undeterred, Schubert continued crafting Grange in secrecy from 1957 to 1959, hiding the wines in makeshift storage to evade detection. In 1960, following a change in management and recognition of the aged wines' exceptional quality during private tastings, production was officially revived, marking a pivotal triumph for Schubert's vision. This revival solidified Grange as Penfolds' flagship, with its multi-vintage blending and heavy oak influence elevating Australian on the global stage. Throughout the and , Schubert expanded Penfolds' innovations in premium reds, introducing the Bin series of classified wines to offer accessible yet high-quality expressions of his techniques. A key example was Bin 389 Cabernet , first released in 1960, which combined structure with Cabernet firmness and underwent similar new maturation, becoming known as "Baby Grange" for its affinity to the flagship. Advancements in handling during this period, including extended barrel aging up to 20 months, enhanced flavor complexity and cellarworthiness across the portfolio, while Schubert also pioneered cold stabilization for whites and plastic materials to prevent taint in processing—techniques that influenced broader Australian . By the 1970s, Grange had achieved cult status, earning international medals from onward and proving Australia's capacity for world-class wines. Schubert served as Chief Winemaker until 1975, when health issues and corporate shifts prompted his transition to technical consultant, a position he held until 1982. He was succeeded by Don Ditter, who had joined Penfolds in 1942 and collaborated closely with Schubert, ensuring continuity in the innovative winemaking ethos. Under this leadership, Grange's role in globalizing persisted, with its bold style and aging potential redefining perceptions of the country's viticulture.

Corporate Acquisitions and Modern Evolution

In 1976, control of Penfolds passed from the founding family to the New South Wales-based brewery Tooth and Co., marking the end of family ownership after over 130 years. This acquisition was followed by further corporate shifts, including its sale to the in 1982 and integration into the Penfolds Wine Group in 1990, which was renamed Southcorp Wines in 1994 after mergers with other Australian wineries like Lindeman's and Wynns. Southcorp's growth continued through the via consolidations, positioning Penfolds as a flagship brand within Australia's largest wine company at the time. The trajectory of ownership evolved further in the 2000s with Southcorp's acquisition by the in 2005 for approximately A$3.17 billion, integrating Penfolds into a broader beverage portfolio that included and other wines. In 2011, Foster's shareholders approved the demerger of its wine division, creating (TWE) as an independent entity listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, with Penfolds remaining a under TWE's global operations. This structure has enabled sustained investment in production and distribution, with TWE reporting annual wine sales exceeding 40 million cases across its portfolio by the mid-2020s, of which Penfolds contributes significantly through its premium offerings. Under the leadership of Chief Winemaker Peter Gago, who joined Penfolds in 1989 as Sparkling Winemaker and assumed the chief role in 2002, the company has expanded beyond traditional reds into sparkling wines, whites, and innovative international blends. A notable development occurred in 2018 when Penfolds reestablished a presence in , launching the Penfolds California Collection in 2021—featuring blends like and sourced from Napa and Sonoma—to tap into global luxury markets while maintaining the brand's multi-regional blending philosophy. This era has seen robust global market growth, particularly in the 2010s, driven by premiumization strategies and expansion in , where accounted for a significant portion of Penfolds' high-end sales, up to 39% of revenues for Bin and ranges by 2020. In 2023, Penfolds released its first wine sourced from Chinese vineyards (Winemaking Trial 521) as part of ongoing international , though sales in China softened in 2025 amid economic challenges. Penfolds marked its 180th anniversary in 2024 with the release of a special collection highlighting its winemaking heritage, including iconic reds like Grange, which continues to underpin the brand's prestige. In 2025, Brand Finance recognized Penfolds as the world's strongest wine brand, with a Brand Strength Index score of 86.2 out of 100, reflecting its marketing investments and luxury positioning. Complementing this, Penfolds has committed to sustainability through its Evermore platform, launched to advance viticulture innovation, reduce environmental impact, and support community initiatives, including grants for climate adaptation projects in Australia and France. By the 2020s, these efforts have aligned with TWE's broader goals, achieving milestones like a 66% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (scopes 1 and 2) since financial year 2021 and near-universal sustainability certifications across operations.

Penfold Family

Christopher Rawson Penfold

Christopher Rawson Penfold was born on 2 August 1811 in , , , the son of Reverend John Penfold, vicar of , and his wife Charlotte Jane (née Brooks). He trained as a physician at St Bartholomew's Hospital in , qualifying in 1838, and practiced medicine in by 1840. In 1835, he married Mary Holt, the daughter of a well-to-do doctor, and the couple had one daughter, Georgina, born in 1843. In June 1844, Penfold emigrated with his wife and young daughter aboard the Taglioni, arriving in Adelaide, South Australia, to start a new life. He selected the Magill Estate in the foothills of the Mount Lofty Ranges, approximately 6.4 km from Adelaide, for its terrain and Mediterranean-like climate suitable for viticulture, purchasing 500 acres of land for £1200. In partnership with Mary, who managed the farm and vineyard operations, Penfold brought vine cuttings from France and planted the first vines in September 1845 on about 6 acres, initially cultivating other crops on 200 acres of the property. As a physician, he believed in the medicinal benefits of wine, particularly for treating anaemia, and established Penfolds as a producer of tonics, brandies, fortified wines, and medicinal wines, focusing on their health properties over spirits or beer. Penfold continued his medical practice in while overseeing the winery's growth, which by the late 1860s included expanding vineyards and production. He died on 26 March 1870 at The Grange, his home in Magill, at the age of 58, after his health had declined; the business then passed to his wife Mary, who led its continuation with support from family and managers.

Mary Penfold

Mary Penfold, née Holt, was born in 1816 in , , the only child of physician Thomas Holt and his wife. She received a privileged upbringing and married medical student in 1835. In 1844, at the age of 28, Mary arrived in aboard the ship Taglioni with her husband, their four-year-old daughter Georgina, and a companion, Ellen Kimbrell, to establish a new life on the Magill Estate. Following Christopher's death in 1870, Mary assumed full control of the winery, rejecting proposals to sell the property and instead directing its operations with the assistance of experienced winemaker Joseph Gillard. Under her leadership, production shifted from primarily medicinal tonics to a broader range of table wines, including clarets, ports, sherries, and pioneering white varieties such as and frontignac. She oversaw significant expansions, growing the vineyard from an initial few acres to over 60 acres by the late 1860s, and introduced modern innovations like steam-powered crushing equipment, concrete vats, and advanced bottling techniques in the . Mary's shrewd facilitated the winery's first overseas shipments to markets in Victoria, , , and , establishing Penfolds as a major exporter. Penfolds received recognition for its white wines, including an award for "Best White Wine of Light Character" at the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society's Annual Show in 1890. After 14 years of hands-on management, she retired in 1884 at age 68, handing operations to Joseph Gillard while maintaining family involvement through her daughter Georgina. Mary died on 3 December 1895 at the age of 79 in , at the home of her daughter, and was buried alongside her husband at St George's Churchyard in Magill. She is remembered as a trailblazing businesswoman whose tenacity and expertise transformed Penfolds into one of South Australia's leading wine producers, contributing up to a third of the colony's total output by the 1880s.

Later Family Members and Descendants

Following the era of and Mary Penfold, subsequent family members continued to guide the winery's operations, emphasizing , sales expansion, and administrative oversight through the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Thomas Francis Hyland, who married the Penfolds' daughter Georgina in 1862, joined the business shortly thereafter and focused on viticultural development and sales in the eastern Australian colonies during the and , helping to scale production amid growing demand for fortified wines. His efforts contributed to the winery's transition from a small estate to a major exporter, with annual output reaching over 100,000 gallons by the . In the early 20th century, grandsons Frank Astor Penfold Hyland and Herbert Leslie Penfold Hyland assumed key roles, with Frank serving as governing director from 1913 until his death in 1948. Together, they introduced efficiencies during , including streamlined production processes to maintain supply amid labor shortages and resource constraints, and diversified into sparkling wines in 1912 by acquiring equipment from a French supplier. Frank's leadership extended through the economic challenges of the 1920s , where the family prioritized cost controls and focused on premium fortified wines to sustain profitability. Gladys Penfold Hyland, Frank's wife and a daughter-in-law to the founding family through her 1921 marriage, took over as chairman of the board in 1948 following his passing and held the position until 1961, while remaining a director until 1963. She provided administrative stability during the post-World War II period, supporting shifts toward table wines and innovations like the development of Grange Hermitage under chief winemaker Max Schubert. Meanwhile, Inez Penfold Hyland, granddaughter of the founders and daughter of Thomas and Georgina, contributed to administrative duties in the late after moving to live with Mary Penfold in 1872, aiding in the management of estate records and family correspondence until her death in 1892. The Penfold family maintained control of the winery for over 130 years, from its founding in 1844 until 1976, when they sold their controlling interest to the New South Wales-based brewer Tooth and Co. amid financial pressures. This era of family stewardship is honored in the suburb of Rosslyn Park, South Australia, where streets such as Hyland Terrace (after Thomas Hyland), Inez Court (after Inez Penfold Hyland), and Penfold Road bear the names of key descendants, reflecting their lasting legacy in the region's viticultural heritage.

Vineyards and Estates

Original Magill Estate

The Magill Estate, located in the eastern suburbs of in the foothills of the , served as the founding site for Penfolds Wines when Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold purchased the property in 1844. Initially encompassing a modest area for development, the estate expanded significantly over the decades, reaching a peak of 120 hectares by 1949, much of which was under vine. The first vines were planted that same year, marking the beginning of Penfolds' legacy on this urban-proximate land, which was chosen for its suitable of sandy soils over . Early plantings at Magill Estate included a diversity of varieties such as and classic grapes like and Mataro (), reflecting the experimental approach of the era to South Australia's nascent . By the , the vineyard evolved toward dominance, with significant replanting occurring in the 1950s to focus on this varietal, aligning with Penfolds' emerging emphasis on robust red wines. Historical milestones include the construction of the first buildings in 1845, notably the stone Grange Cottage—the original family home—which still stands today. In recognition of its cultural and architectural importance, the estate was designated a State Heritage Place on 25 July 1985, preserving key structures like the cellars and chimney. Today, the has been reduced to approximately 5.2 hectares due to progressive urban encroachment in suburban , yet it remains a vital monopole producing estate-grown wines, including the acclaimed Magill Estate Shiraz and select components for the flagship Grange. Preservation efforts, such as ongoing vineyard regeneration programs initiated in the , ensure the site's amid surrounding development, maintaining its role as Penfolds' spiritual heart and a rare urban .

Multi-Regional Sourcing

Penfolds pioneered the practice of multi-district blending in the 1950s through the creation of Grange, its flagship Shiraz-dominant wine, which drew grapes from diverse South Australian regions to achieve greater complexity, balance, and aging potential inspired by Bordeaux-style winemaking. This approach, initiated by winemaker Max Schubert in 1951, marked a departure from single-vineyard reliance, allowing for the selection of the ripest fruit across districts to mitigate vintage variations and enhance the wine's structure. By the mid-1950s, Grange routinely incorporated Shiraz from Barossa Valley as its core backbone, supplemented by contributions from McLaren Vale for richness, Coonawarra for elegance in both Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon components, and Clare Valley for additional depth. The strategy extends to other varietals, with providing the robust foundation for many reds, while cooler sites like supply aromatic whites such as and , contributing finesse and acidity. Expansions into have bolstered bases, particularly for Yattarna, where the region's cool climate yields high-quality and parcels since the early 2000s. Although the original Magill Estate remains a symbolic core for select contributions, it forms only a portion of the broader sourcing network. Internationally, Penfolds has ventured beyond Australia since the late 2010s, releasing the inaugural California Collection in 2021 featuring the 2018 vintage of Penfolds II (Bin 600 Cabernet Shiraz), blending Napa Valley and Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon with Paso Robles Shiraz to infuse New World vibrancy while adhering to the House Style. In France, trials under the French Winemaking Trial (FWT 585) series source Bordeaux Cabernet blends from the Médoc and Haut-Médoc, with acquisitions like Château Lanessan expanding production capacity. Exploratory efforts in other regions, including China for Cabernet-Marselan hybrids, further diversify the palette without compromising the brand's emphasis on multi-origin harmony. At its core, Penfolds' sourcing philosophy prioritizes quality and consistency over single-vineyard , partnering with over 200 growers who manage more than 2,000 hectares across premier sites to ensure a reliable supply of elite fruit. This grower network, combined with owned and leased estates, enables the blending of complementary elements—such as power from warmer valleys and freshness from elevated hills—to craft wines with enduring complexity and the signature Penfolds mid-palate generosity.

Sustainable Practices

Penfolds, as part of (TWE), has integrated sustainable practices into its operations since the early 2000s, emphasizing reduced chemical inputs, , and enhancement across its vineyards. These efforts align with broader industry standards, including membership in Sustainable Winegrowing , under which all TWE vineyards and wineries, including those supplying Penfolds, have achieved certification. The program promotes environmentally responsible practices such as to minimize synthetic chemical use and initiatives to support long-term ecosystem resilience. In 2025, TWE reported that 98% of its global and sites, encompassing Penfolds' estates, hold certifications, reflecting a commitment to measurable environmental improvements. Key initiatives include the installation of 34 on-site solar systems generating 5,600 MWh of annually, powering facilities and advancing TWE's goal of 100% renewable electricity across operations, achieved in 2025. At Penfolds' sites, practices are supported through grants funding native vegetation restoration to improve and . Biodiversity programs form a core focus, with Penfolds funding projects like the McLaren Vale Project, which introduced beehives in 2022 to boost pollinator populations and habitat diversity on vineyard properties. Additionally, through the Penfolds Evermore Grant Program, launched in 2024, the company supports urban pollinator corridors via initiatives such as the B&B Highway in , planting native species to create connectivity for bees, birds, and other wildlife. In early 2025, the program expanded to France, awarding €120,000 to support innovative local projects enhancing and . Water conservation efforts include vineyard canopy management trials in partnership with , aimed at reducing needs while maintaining grape quality and yield. Penfolds contributes to TWE's , which includes a 2020 baseline commitment to net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and full net-zero emissions across all scopes by 2050, supported by innovations like climate-resilient grapevine development with . These practices underscore Penfolds' role in advancing regenerative and low-impact , with ongoing investments in water-efficient technologies and restoration to ensure viability amid changing environmental conditions.

Winemaking and Products

Winemaking Philosophy

Penfolds' winemaking philosophy centers on crafting bold, age-worthy wines characterized by robust , seamless integration, and innovative multi-varietal blending to achieve balance and . This house style, which emphasizes intensity and complexity, originated in the with fortified wines but evolved into a hallmark of premium table wines, prioritizing quality fruit selection and stylistic consistency across vintages. The approach remains unbound by regional or varietal constraints, allowing for creative blending that enhances flavor harmony and cellar potential. The evolution of Penfolds' practices traces from its founding in 1844, when Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold produced medicinal tonics and fortified wines using South Australian grapes, to a post-1950s shift toward unfortified table wines that established the winery as a producer of global icons. This transition reduced reliance on fortification, favoring dry reds inspired by international benchmarks, and introduced innovations like temperature-controlled fermentation and pure yeast cultures to elevate quality and consistency. By the mid-20th century, these changes marked a departure from medicinal origins, focusing instead on premium, ageable expressions that reflected Australia's viticultural potential. Key techniques underpinning this philosophy include the exclusive use of new American barrels for flagship reds, which impart distinctive vanilla and spice notes while promoting structural depth, alongside extended post- maceration to enhance flavor complexity and integration. Barrel and maturation further refine the wines' texture, ensuring becomes an integral rather than dominant element. Chief winemaker Max Schubert profoundly shaped the philosophy from 1948, drawing on influences to pioneer robust, long-aging reds using Australian as the base, thereby adapting European ideals to local terroirs. His successor, Peter Gago, appointed in 2002 after joining in 1989, extended this vision globally from the 1990s onward through multi-country sourcing and blending, incorporating sites in and to broaden the house style without compromising its core principles. Grange exemplifies this enduring approach, blending with forward-thinking adaptation.

Flagship Wines

Penfolds' flagship wines represent the pinnacle of the winery's multi-regional blending philosophy, showcasing exceptional quality and longevity through carefully selected parcels from premium South Australian vineyards. These icons, including Grange, Bin 707 , Yattarna , and St Henri , embody Penfolds' commitment to producing age-worthy wines that rival the world's finest, with production limited to ensure exclusivity and intensity. Grange, Penfolds' signature , was created in 1951 by chief winemaker Max Schubert during an experimental project inspired by his 1950 visit to , where he sought to craft a wine capable of aging for at least 20 years. This multi-regional blend, primarily sourced from with contributions from regions like McLaren Vale and Coonawarra, has maintained an unbroken run of vintages since its inception, earning designation as a Heritage Icon of . Annual production hovers between 5,000 and 15,000 cases, allowing for concentrated flavors and remarkable cellaring potential of 20 to 50 years or more. Priced at over $700 per bottle for recent releases, Grange consistently achieves 98+ point ratings from critics and has become Australia's premier "cult" wine, with rare vintages like the 1951 fetching auction prices exceeding $140,000. Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon debuted in 1964 as Penfolds' first commercial single-varietal Cabernet, serving as the Cabernet counterpart to Grange and named after the Boeing 707 jet that symbolized global ambition. Sourced from elite vineyards across Coonawarra, Langhorne Creek, and the Clare Valley, it undergoes 16 to 18 months of maturation in 100% new American oak hogsheads, resulting in a rich, structured wine with aging potential spanning decades. Production is limited to approximately 10,000 to 14,000 cases annually, with some vintages skipped—such as 1970–1975, 1981, and 2011—to maintain quality standards. This flagship has solidified Penfolds' reputation for powerful, benchmark Cabernet Sauvignons. Yattarna Chardonnay, Penfolds' flagship white, emerged from an intensive development project that began in 1992, spanning six vintages and over 144 trials, culminating in the 1995 vintage released in 1998, aiming to create a Chardonnay rivaling Grange in prestige and precision. Drawing from cool-climate sites in , , and Tumbarumba, it blends elegance with power, fermented and matured in French oak for nuanced texture and balance, offering aging potential of 10 to 20 years. Production remains selective, typically yielding 24,000 to 60,000 bottles per vintage, underscoring its status as a limited-release that has elevated Penfolds' profile internationally. The name, derived from an Aboriginal term meaning "little by little," reflects the patient craftsmanship invested in its evolution. St Henri Shiraz, introduced commercially in 1957, honors a traditional style dating back to an vintage from the Auldana estate, matured exclusively in old, large-format oak vats without new oak influence to preserve pure fruit expression and savory complexity. This multi-regional Shiraz, primarily from cooler areas like Eden Valley and McLaren Vale, contrasts Grange's opulence with its elegant, earth-driven profile and exceptional aging capacity of 20 to 40 years. Revived in the for its enduring quality, St Henri's limited production—focused on select parcels—has cemented its role as a collector's favorite and a testament to Penfolds' historical winemaking heritage.

Broader Product Portfolio

Penfolds' broader product portfolio extends beyond its iconic flagships to encompass a wide array of value-driven and innovative wines, catering to diverse consumer preferences and global markets. The Bin series, introduced in the mid-20th century, forms a cornerstone of this range, providing approachable yet high-quality expressions of Penfolds' winemaking expertise. For instance, Bin 28 Kalimna , first produced in 1959 and named after the historic Kalimna vineyard acquired by Penfolds in 1945, originated as a single-vineyard but has evolved into a multi-regional blend emphasizing the Barossa's contributions for its rich, spicy profile. Similarly, Bin 311 draws from cool-climate regions such as , Tumbarumba, and the , delivering elegant notes of , stone fruit, and minerality through partial barrel fermentation. The portfolio also includes dedicated lines for whites, sparklings, and fortified wines, broadening accessibility while maintaining Penfolds' signature balance and quality. The Koonunga Hill range, named after a prized Barossa Valley vineyard, features varietal whites like Chardonnay and Autumn Riesling, alongside red blends such as Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon, offering consistent richness at an entry-level price point. In the fortified category, Club Tawny stands out as a multi-vintage blend of Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro, oak-matured at the Kalimna cellars for an average of three years, resulting in mellow notes of stone fruit, caramel, and nuts that have made it Australia's most popular fortified wine. For sparklings, Penfolds ventured into Champagne through a 2019 collaboration with family-owned House Thiénot, producing a series of cuvées including non-vintage Brut and Rosé, as well as 2012 vintage Grand Cru expressions blending Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier to celebrate Penfolds' 175th anniversary. Innovative expansions have further diversified the offerings, incorporating non-Australian terroirs and experimental blends. Launched in 2021, the Penfolds California Collection draws on decades of experience in the region, starting with heritage cuttings imported in 1998; key releases include Bin 600 Cabernet Shiraz from Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Paso Robles, fusing bold black fruits and spice in a nod to Penfolds' multi-varietal house style. Limited editions like G3 exemplify rarity and creativity, blending three vintages of Grange (2008, 2012, and 2014) into just 1,200 bottles released in 2017, showcasing layered black fruits, licorice, and fine as a unique multi-vintage Shiraz expression. By FY2024, Penfolds' sales volume reached approximately 3.0 million 9L cases, driven significantly by demand in where the brand generates ~63% of its revenue. In FY2025, Penfolds experienced initial growth in Asia but reported a slowdown in sales as of October 2025.

Business and Ownership

Early Commercial Growth

Penfolds began as a small-scale operation in the 1840s, with Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold producing fortified wines primarily for medicinal purposes, such as iron-rich tonics to treat among his patients in . These initial sales were channeled through networks, reflecting the era's common practice of using wine as a therapeutic aid, with the first yields amounting to just a few gallons from the Magill Estate vineyard in 1847. By the 1860s, the business had shifted toward broader retail distribution within and initial s, particularly to , where demand for fortified styles like and grew among colonial markets. This transition was driven by the rising popularity of Penfolds' products beyond medical use, enabling expansion into commercial sales and overseas shipment, with the emerging as a primary destination. Production scaled significantly under family leadership, particularly after Mary Penfold assumed control following her husband's death in 1870, transforming the winery into a major player. By 1881, Penfolds output reached 486,432 liters—equivalent to approximately 54,000 cases—accounting for one-third of 's total wine production and marking a substantial increase from the modest volumes of the prior decades. The late 19th century brought challenges, including the threat of outbreaks reported across Australian regions in the , which prompted stringent quarantine measures in to protect local vineyards, though the pest did not directly devastate Penfolds' estates. Economic depressions in the further strained the industry, reducing domestic demand and export volumes amid broader financial instability in the colonies.

20th-Century Corporate Changes

In 1976, the Penfold family sold controlling interest in Penfolds to Tooth and Co., a New South Wales-based company, marking the end of family ownership after 132 years and integrating the into a larger corporate structure. Despite the shift to brewery ownership, Penfolds retained significant winemaking autonomy, allowing its team to continue innovative practices without immediate interference from the parent company's beer-focused operations. During the 1980s, further consolidation occurred when Tooth and Co. was acquired by the (Adsteam) in 1982, bringing Penfolds under the umbrella of a diversified conglomerate involved in shipping, retail, and other sectors. This merger formed the Penfolds Wines division within Tooth, enhancing access to broader distribution networks while the winery maintained its operational independence in production decisions. The 1990s saw additional restructurings, with SA Brewing purchasing Adsteam's wine assets, including Penfolds, in 1990 amid the conglomerate's financial difficulties. In 1994, the wine division was reorganized and renamed Southcorp Wines, a move that consolidated premium brands like Penfolds and emphasized high-end positioning in the global market. These corporate transitions significantly scaled up Penfolds' production capabilities through expanded resources and market reach, yet the winery's core winemaking traditions endured, including the closely guarded secrecy surrounding the blending process for its flagship Grange wine.

Current Ownership and Global Expansion

Penfolds is currently owned by Limited (TWE), a publicly listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: TWE), following the 2011 demerger of Foster's Group's wine assets into a standalone entity. This structure emerged after Foster's acquired Southcorp Limited—the previous owner of Penfolds—in 2005 for approximately A$3.2 billion, integrating Penfolds as a flagship premium brand within TWE's portfolio. Under TWE, Penfolds has emphasized global expansion, with international markets accounting for over 70% of its revenue in the first half of 2025, driven by strong demand in . Key export destinations include , where Penfolds holds significant market share in premium segments, the , and the as part of broader European growth. In 2018, Penfolds diversified into luxury spirits with the launch of Penfolds Special Bottlings, featuring limited-release brandy expressions to extend its heritage in blended premium products. However, on October 13, 2025, TWE issued a trading update withdrawing its FY2026 earnings guidance due to weaker-than-expected Penfolds sales in and distribution challenges, pausing a A$200 million share buyback. The brand's global stature was affirmed in 2025 when Brand Finance ranked Penfolds as the world's strongest wine brand, achieving an AAA rating on its Brand Strength Index, with a valuation of A$1.7 billion. Penfolds operates from its historic in Magill, , as TWE's premier asset, contributing approximately 37% of the parent company's net sales revenue of A$2.9 billion for the fiscal year ended June 2025. TWE employs around 2,500 people globally, supporting Penfolds' and distribution across multiple regions.

Awards and Recognition

Historical Accolades

Penfolds' early international recognition came in 1889 at the Exposition, where Mrs. M. Penfold received a for the winery's wines. This accolade highlighted the quality of South Australian wines on a global stage, with Penfolds' specifically noted for its excellence during the judging process. In 1890, Mary Penfold, the winery's co-founder and pioneering winemaker, was awarded a at the Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Show in for her white wines of light character, as engraved on the trophy itself. This honor underscored her innovative contributions to white winemaking amid an era dominated by fortified styles. By the mid-20th century, Penfolds achieved further milestones with its flagship Grange wine, whose 1955 vintage secured its first gold medals starting in 1962, marking an early international breakthrough for the bold Shiraz-based red. Max Schubert, creator of Grange, received significant personal honors in the late 20th century, including the Member of the in 1984 for his services to the Australian wine industry. These accolades, alongside Grange's enduring show success, contributed to Penfolds amassing thousands of medals by the 1980s, solidifying its reputation as a pre-global era leader in Australian winemaking.

Recent International Awards

In the 21st century, Penfolds has solidified its global reputation through consistent high-level recognition at prestigious international competitions and rankings. The achieved notable success at the Golden Vines Awards, earning the Best Fine Wine Producer in the Rest of the World title in 2021, 2022, and 2023, marking it as one of the first winners in the event's history. These accolades, voted on by nearly 1,000 fine wine professionals worldwide, underscore Penfolds' innovation and excellence beyond traditional Australian boundaries. In 2025, Penfolds was ranked as the world's strongest wine brand by Brand Finance in its Alcoholic Drinks report, attaining an AAA brand strength rating and a Brand Strength Index score of 86.2 out of 100, surpassing global competitors like Changyu. Complementing this, the brand claimed the Most Reputable title at the Australian Drinks Awards, highlighting its enduring consumer trust and market leadership in premium reds. Penfolds wines have frequently featured in Wine Spectator's annual Top 100 list, with multiple entries demonstrating sustained quality. For instance, the 2022 Bin 389 Cabernet- secured the #12 position in the 2024 Top 100, praised for its dense, succulent profile and velvety . Recent vintages, including the 2020 Grange Shiraz, have earned 95+ scores, with the Grange receiving 96 points for its brooding intensity and layered dark fruit character. The winery's sparkling Chardonnay, Yattarna, has garnered gold medals at the World Wine Awards, including for the 2014 vintage, reflecting Penfolds' prowess in producing benchmark Australian whites with citrus-driven elegance and finesse. Additionally, Penfolds has maintained a five-star rating in James Halliday's Companion annually since 2010, affirming its status as a producer of exemplary quality and typicity across its portfolio. These honors build on the winery's historical foundations, emphasizing its evolution into a benchmark for global fine wine prestige.

Philanthropy and Causes

Environmental Initiatives

Penfolds launched the Evermore platform in 2023 as its inaugural brand-led sustainability initiative, committing to fund projects that advance biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental health. Through the Penfolds Evermore Grant Program, which allocated $1 million over five years starting in 2024, the company supports innovative efforts such as regenerative seed planting and ecosystem restoration in key wine regions like the Barossa Valley. For instance, grants have backed biodiversity enhancement in McLaren Vale, where Penfolds installed beehives in 2022 to boost pollinator populations and overall ecosystem diversity on vineyard properties. In water stewardship, Penfolds has implemented programs to optimize usage and support local ecosystems, including the Kalimna Dam Project, a 254-megalitre facility that captures treated for vineyard irrigation during dry periods. This initiative, completed in 2022, has diverted significant volumes from external sources, contributing to broader reductions in operational intensity across Treasury Wine Estates' portfolio, Penfolds' parent company. Additionally, the Markaranka Wetland Rejuvenation Project at the Markaranka has delivered over 795 megalitres of environmental since to restore a 200-hectare along the , benefiting native species such as the southern bell frog and ; this effort involves partnerships with organizations like Landcare Australia for technical and community support. Penfolds' climate action aligns with ' 2023 commitment to a net-zero emissions roadmap for scopes 1 and 2 by 2030, emphasizing and regenerative practices. Key components include piloting electric vehicles in the Australian fleet to reduce emissions and transitioning to hybrid models for . The company has also advanced regenerative farming on select estates, with Evermore grants funding and projects that cover hundreds of hectares in premium growing areas; for example, initiatives at Barossa properties integrate cover crops and reduced tillage to enhance and vine resilience. Complementing these, the 2023 Koonunga Hill Vineyard Canopy Project encloses 13.4 hectares of and vines to mitigate , aiming for lower water needs and stable yields through collaboration with the Australian Wine Research Institute and the . Supporting these efforts, Penfolds targets 100% of its product to incorporate at least 50% recycled content by the end of 2025, advancing ' overarching goal of fully recyclable, reusable, or compostable materials to minimize waste and emissions. These measures collectively contribute to annual CO2 avoidance through efficiency gains, such as integration at facilities producing Penfolds wines, though specific tonnage figures are reported at the parent company level. practices, including precision irrigation and cover cropping, further underpin these initiatives by promoting storage and reduced input dependency.

Community and Social Support

Penfolds demonstrates its commitment to community and social support through the Evermore Grant Program, launched in 2023 with a pledge of $1 million AUD over five years to fund innovative projects in its wine-growing regions across , , and the . The program prioritizes initiatives in food, and , and creative arts, aiming to foster cultural connections and positive change in local communities. In its inaugural 2024 round in , $200,000 AUD was awarded to four recipients, including a community kitchen library in the that provides accessible cooking classes and resources to enhance and social cohesion in the region. In education, Penfolds supports aspiring professionals in the wine industry via targeted scholarships. In September 2025, the company partnered with Florida International University's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management to establish the Penfolds Evermore Wine Studies Scholarship Fund, offering tuition assistance, Napa Valley study trips, and internships to underrepresented students pursuing wine . Additionally, as part of ' Brighter Future Initiative—which oversees Penfolds—scholarships have been provided to viticulture and enology students at California Polytechnic State University, contributing to broader industry talent development since 2024. By 2025, these efforts have contributed to industry talent development through educational . Penfolds engages with the arts through strategic creative partnerships that blend winemaking heritage with contemporary culture. Since 2023, the company has collaborated with Japanese designer as its first creative partner, co-developing limited-edition wine releases and visual identities that highlight artistic innovation, including fashion-inspired packaging and multimedia projects. These initiatives extend Penfolds' support to emerging artists and cultural events, such as pop-up experiences at Art Week in 2022, where partnerships with digital galleries like Vellum LA provided platforms for designers in creative spaces. On health and social fronts, Penfolds contributes to mental well-being in wine communities through donations of rare wines to charity auctions. Since the early 2000s, its vintages have featured prominently in events like the annual Barossa Fine Wine Auction, which raised nearly $300,000 AUD in 2023 and over $100,000 AUD in 2025 for the Barossa Australia Well-Being Fund, delivering mental health training and support services to local residents and industry workers. These efforts have cumulatively generated more than $500,000 AUD for regional social causes by 2025, emphasizing accessible care in rural areas.

References

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