Penfolds Max's Shiraz 2025 brings the generous, fruit-led character of South Australian Shiraz into a relaxed, food-friendly style. Named in honour of Max Schubert, the Penfolds winemaker whose determination helped shape the house's reputation, Max's is intended to be expressive and approachable rather than imposing. This is the sort of red to open with good food and good company, where ripe fruit, gentle spice and a rounded structure work together.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Ruby-red with garnet tones.
Aroma
Generous aromas of ripe plum and red berries, with raspberry, gentle baking spice and a hint of liquorice. The fruit leads, supported by a subtle savoury complexity.
Palate
Plush and richly fruited, with ripe plum and red-berry flavours carried by a rounded, supple texture. Gentle spice and savoury notes add interest, while balanced freshness and smooth, well-shaped tannins keep the wine composed. A restrained oak impression sits comfortably behind the fruit.
Finish
Rounded and persistent, leaving dark fruit, mild spice and a savoury echo as the tannins gently taper away.
Food Pairing & Serving
Serve at around 16–18°C, ideally with food that can match its depth without overwhelming it. Think grilled lamb cutlets, barbecued beef, slow-cooked ragu, smoky sausages or a mushroom-rich pasta. Hard cheeses also work well. A short spell in a decanter can help a newly opened bottle settle if it seems a little tightly wound.
Vineyards & Winemaking
Max's Shiraz reflects Penfolds' longstanding approach to South Australian red winemaking, drawing on the region's Shiraz character to create a generous, balanced and approachable wine.
The Max's range places ripe fruit at the centre, supported by carefully managed tannins and an integrated oak influence. The result is a contemporary expression of South Australian Shiraz that brings together richness, freshness and savoury complexity without losing its easygoing appeal.
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