Penfolds Grange is Australia’s most iconic wine, and one of the world’s greatest collectible reds. First crafted by Max Schubert in 1951, Grange has become synonymous with power, longevity, and Penfolds’ unique multi-regional blending philosophy. It is consistently classified as “Exceptional” on the Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine.
Vineyard
The 1997 Grange was sourced from a range of premium South Australian vineyard sites including the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Padthaway, and Magill Estate. This multi-regional approach ensures depth, complexity, and balance, showcasing the very best Shiraz (with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon) from each site.
Vintage
1997 was considered a cool vintage with some challenging ripening conditions, but Penfolds’ rigorous fruit selection ensured only the finest parcels were used. As a result, the 1997 Grange is a more elegant, medium-bodied interpretation compared to the blockbuster vintages before and after it, offering finesse and earlier drinkability while still retaining Grange’s hallmark longevity.
Tasting Notes
The 1997 Grange presents deep garnet with brick hues at the rim. The nose reveals blackberry, plum, cedar, and tobacco, lifted by notes of licorice, espresso, and earth. The palate is refined and savoury, with black fruits, spice, and fine-grained tannins integrated into a supple, medium-bodied frame. Mature oak notes of mocha and dark chocolate add complexity. The finish is long, elegant, and polished, making this a Grange that leans towards grace rather than sheer power.
Critics’ Acclaim
-
90 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
-
93 points – Wine Spectator
While less celebrated than surrounding vintages such as 1996 and 1998, the 1997 is valued by collectors for its accessible style, mature savoury complexity, and rarity.
Technical Information
-
Region: Multi-regional South Australia
-
Blend: Predominantly Shiraz with ~5% Cabernet Sauvignon
-
Alcohol: ~13.5%
-
Maturation: 18 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads
-
Closure: Cork
-
Drinking Window: 2008–2035 (now drinking at full maturity)
A Collectible Gem
The 1997 Penfolds Grange Shiraz is a distinctive expression within the Grange lineage—more elegant than monumental, yet deeply complex and age-worthy. For collectors seeking diversity across their Grange holdings, this vintage offers refinement, savoury depth, and historical significance.
