For 175 years, Penfolds has been grounded in experimentation, curiosity and uncompromising quality. This foundation has driven us since the very beginning and with each generation of custodians it is celebrated. As we mark our 175th year, Penfolds honours those who defined our history.

Ray Beckwith was a scientific genius who revolutionised Australian wine-making. From 1935 to 1973 Penfolds was his laboratory, where he was instrumental in the development of our leading red wines. His greatest discovery was the use of PH technology to prevent wine from spoiling. This wine bears all the hallmarks of Cabernet Sauvignon, with classic savoury notes supported by well-handled oak and supple tannins. An experiment of which Ray would approve. 

Winter and spring rainfall offered the vines across South Australia healthy soil moisture profiles for the growing season. Vines were slow to get going with below average, cool conditions prevailing until October. Budburst was earlier than the long term average, however the duration between budburst and flowering was longer than expected. The prevailing wet weather conditions meant canopy and crop management was a priority for the viticulture team and growers. April was generally drier with weather conditions favouring fully ripened grapes with well-developed colours and flavours. The late Autumnal rain delayed harvest by around a month resulting in slow, steady harvest.