# Max's Shiraz Cabernet

- **Producer:** Penfolds
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Vegan:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** ripe fruit, black cherry, blackcurrant, vanilla, cedar, coffee, chocolate

## About this wine

Penfolds Max's Shiraz Cabernet is a tribute to Max Schubert, a pivotal figure in Australian winemaking history and the creator of Penfolds Grange. The wine is crafted by Penfolds, an iconic Australian winery founded in 1844. It is sourced from various vineyards across South Australia, reflecting the producer's signature multi-regional blending philosophy. This approach aims to achieve a consistent and high-quality wine style, year after year, by selecting the best fruit from diverse terroirs within the region. The Max's range offers an approachable introduction to the Penfolds winemaking legacy.

## Interesting facts

- Named in honor of Max Schubert, the legendary Penfolds Chief Winemaker (1948-1975).
- Schubert was instrumental in creating Penfolds Grange, a benchmark Australian wine.
- The wine is a blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, a classic Australian combination.
- Penfolds' multi-regional blending philosophy ensures consistency across vintages.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and pronounced tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and hearty dishes. The wine's fruit-forward character can stand up to robust flavors, while its moderate acidity helps to cut through fattier components, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

Penfolds Max's Shiraz Cabernet is produced using a philosophy of multi-regional blending, sourcing grapes from various vineyards across South Australia. After harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and crushed before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, with regular pump-overs for color and tannin extraction. The wine is then matured for 12-18 months in a mix of new and seasoned French and American oak barrels. This process aims to create a wine that is consistent in quality and style, reflecting the Penfolds house character.