Penfolds Maxs Shiraz Cabernet 750ml

Penfolds Max's Shiraz Cabernet is a tribute to Max Schubert, Chief Winemaker from 1948 to 1975 and a legend in Penfolds history. His constant pursuit of excellence paved the way for those who followed and helped build the status and heritage of the house. This is a more approachable Penfolds style at release: shelf to glass, no cellar required.

The blend is 69% Shiraz and 31% Cabernet Sauvignon from McLaren Vale, Wrattonbully, Padthaway and Coonawarra, at 14.5% ABV (acidity 6.5 g/L, pH 3.60). The colour is a plum core with strawberry brightness at the rim. The nose leads with graphite and heady varnish, a blue-fruited elegance and cranberry sweetness, then vanilla sponge, cannoli creaminess, asphalt, wet slate, juniper and pink peppercorn.

On the palate there is a salinity, best described as salted plum, with a cool, flowing texture. Spearmint tea, lavender and black olive tapenade follow, graphite carrying through. Ylang ylang and powdery tannins taper to a well-defined point. Pour it with grilled steak. Ralph's sells it, Metro Manila delivery.