Most wine enthusiasts and collectors know well of the infamous Penfolds Australian Shiraz, with the Grange occupying the top slot.  Year after year, these wines offer collectibles to be enjoyed, sometimes for decades.  For example, the 1998 vintage of Grange, released at around $200, now goes for $350 and up.  It should be noted that the 2004, released at $450, has softened in sync with the weaker world economy, going for a “bargain” $350.  Fruits vary in vintages from dark plum, currant and blackberry to cherry and red plum, underpinned by coffee, expresso and herbs such as cardamom and other spices.  Tannins can range from firm to smooth but always well integrated into the structure of the vintage’s wine.  These wines typically have a nice, long cellaring window to work with, at least 10-20 years and a bit longer in some of the finer vintages.

Penfolds first vineyard was founded by Dr. Christopher Rawson Penfold in 1844.  For over 100 years, Penfolds concentrated on the production of fortified wines and brandy.  But it was in 1950 that chief winemaker Max Schubert became inspired by Bordeaux winemaking techniques.  Schubert’s ambition was to produce a red that would rival the best of Bordeaux in both quality and aging potential.  Max first achieved his goal with the 1951 vintage of Grange, named after his cottage in Magill, using the readily available Shiraz grape.