Penfolds, established in Adelaide in 1844 by Christopher Rawson Penfold, an English physician who migrated to Australia with his wife Mary Penfold, stands as one of the oldest Australian wine producers. Presently, it operates under the umbrella of Treasury Wine Estates. Peter Gago has held the position of chief winemaker since 2002, contributing significantly to the brand's legacy.
History of Penfolds Wineries
The text chronicles the establishment and growth of Penfolds, beginning with the arrival of Christopher and Mary Penfold in Australia in 1844. Christopher, an English physician, believed in the medicinal benefits of wine and, with Mary, set out to create wine tonics for treating anaemia. They cultivated vineyards at the Magill Estate and expanded production, offering various wines beyond fortified ones like sherry and port. After Christopher's death in 1870, Mary took over and expanded the business, engaging in experimentation and new production methods. Mary retired in 1884, leaving the business to her daughter and son-in-law, who continued its success. In the early 20th century, Penfolds grew, acquiring more vineyards. The company's focus shifted to table wines in the 1940s, leading to the creation of iconic wines like 'Grange' by chief winemaker Max Schubert. Ownership changes occurred over the years, with control passing through various companies, including Tooth and Co. and SA Brewing, before ultimately becoming part of Foster's Group and later Treasury Wine Estates (TWE). Penfolds presently operates two wineries: Magill Estate and Nuriootpa. The narrative culminates in 2012 with Penfolds releasing a limited edition '2004 Block 42' wine in glass ampoules, touted as one of the most expensive wines sold directly from a winery.
Penfolds manages several vineyards across South Australia, each specializing in various grape varieties:
In Adelaide:
- Magill Estate spans 5.34 hectares (13.2 acres) and focuses on shiraz.
In Barossa Valley:
- Kalimna, a property covering 290 hectares (720 acres) with 153 hectares (380 acres) under vine, cultivates shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, mataro (mourvèdre), and includes eight rows of sangiovese.
- Koonunga Hill spans 93 hectares (230 acres) and specializes in shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.
- Waltons covers 317 hectares (780 acres) with 130 hectares (320 acres) planted, cultivating shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, and mataro (mourvèdre).
- Stonewell, spanning 33 hectares (82 acres), focuses on shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.
In Eden Valley:
- Woodbury encompasses 69.56 hectares (171.9 acres).
In McLaren Vale:
- Spread across four vineyards, approximately 141 hectares (350 acres) are dedicated to shiraz, grenache, and cabernet sauvignon.
In Coonawarra:
- Close to 50 hectares (120 acres) mainly specialize in cabernet sauvignon and shiraz.

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Penfolds - Wikipedia

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Inserted: 01-01-2024 20:01:24