2012 The Max Schubert Cabernet Shiraz

Archetypal Cabernet Shiraz. An ideal varietal union, and when captured in a glass – one that fully explains the meaning of synergy.

A no-risk cellaring journey. Open anytime across the next 3 decades.

Peter Gago, Penfolds chief winemaker

94+/100

This brand new Penfolds label pays homage to Grange founder, Max Schubert. Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2012 The Max Schubert Cabernet/Shiraz offers a slowly evolving, complex nose with baked berry, cassis and cedar notes over spice box and earth hints.

Medium-bodied with a rock-solid foundation of grainy tannins and refreshing acidity, the muscular fruit is densely packed at this youthful stage, leading to a long if somewhat restrained finish.

This is a very promising wine, though I've played my score on the conservative side.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, www.erobertparker.com, September 2015