Every creative individual strives to craft something truly iconic, an enduring legacy. This is an achievement that Max Schubert, the inaugural chief winemaker of the renowned Australian winery Penfolds, accomplished with aplomb when he introduced Grange Hermitage to the market, Australia's most illustrious wine. Nevertheless, his creation did not materialize overnight. Indeed, it was Schubert's persistence and self-belief that culminated in triumph after initially receiving a lukewarm reception from the wine trade in the 1950s. He tenaciously continued the project in secret after being instructed to abandon it. However, in the 1960s, word leaked that Schubert was experimenting with a clandestine wine, and given the burgeoning anticipation, the board ultimately granted him permission to officially release the wine. A decision that was universally unregretted, as the wine's success was marked by a deluge of accolades and gold medals. Officially recognized as part of South Australia's Heritage Icons, Grange not only pays homage to a winery that brought Australian wine onto the international stage but also elevates the dedication and professionalism of one of the most influential Australians of the century.
In tribute to this legendary figure, Penfolds has crafted the Max series. A homage to the winemaker who helmed the winery from 1948 to 1975 and through his excellence and creative prowess, significantly elevated the status and legacy of the brand like no other. This enduring legacy is still manifested in wines like Penfolds Max's Shiraz Cabernet, offering us a gateway to the heart of Australian viticulture. It is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah sourced from various vineyards and regions. Such diversification, a hallmark of Penfolds' wines, aims to secure the finest fruit and achieve the quintessential Australian expression. Following the harvest and meticulous selection of grapes, the wine is vinified in a combination of new and seasoned French and American oak barrels. There, the wine matures for 18 months, ample time for the fruit and oak to coalesce into a harmonious balance.
The result is Penfolds Max's Shiraz Cabernet, a vibrant, robust, and well-structured blend that will not disappoint. A wine worthy of the name of the most iconic winemaker in the history of Penfolds and indeed all of Australia.