1975 Grange

The year Max Schubert retired as chief winemaker, although he remained a consultant to Penfolds and kept an office at Magill until his death in 1994.

He was succeeded by Don Ditter who had worked with Penfolds since 1946.

Sourced from the Barossa Valley (including Kalimna Vineyard) and Coonawarra. Shiraz (90%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%). Cool summer followed by a mild, dry vintage.

Eighteen months in new American oak hogsheads.

Don Ditter, Penfolds chief winemaker

92/100

A blend of 90% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage was considered as a "good yet tannic Grange". Certainly the tannins have become beautifully integrated in this sweet, expansive, full-bodied wine, with notes of subtle leather, melted asphalt, blackberry, and coffee.

It is a very powerful, rich, deep, muscular wine with enormous concentration, plenty of glycerin and sweetness, and remarkable freshness and vigor. Drink it over the next 12–15 years.

Robert M. Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, February 2002

87/100

Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator, 31 January 1997

89/100

Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com