Magill Estate is Penfolds’ historic birthplace, founded in 1844 on the slopes of Adelaide’s foothills. Today it remains one of the world’s rare urban single-vineyard estates, producing a limited quantity of Shiraz that marries site expression with Penfolds’ house style.
Vineyard
The Magill Estate vineyard sits on distinctive sandy loam, quartz, and clay soils, producing Shiraz with a savoury, mineral edge. The grapes are handpicked and vinified on-site at the historic winery, before maturation in French (30% new) and American oak hogsheads (70% new) for around 14–16 months.
Vintage
2013 was a warm, dry vintage in South Australia, producing low yields of intensely flavoured fruit. For Magill Estate, this translated into a concentrated Shiraz of depth and generosity, framed by firm tannins and ripe fruit purity.
Tasting Notes
The 2013 Magill Estate Shiraz shows a deep ruby-purple colour. The nose offers blackberry, black cherry, and plum, interlaced with hints of dark chocolate, espresso, graphite, and savoury spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with dense black fruit supported by firm tannins and finely integrated oak. The finish is long and powerful, showing the signature balance of elegance and intensity that defines Magill Estate.
Critics’ Acclaim
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95 points – James Halliday
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93 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Well regarded for its density, concentration, and ability to age gracefully over two decades.
Technical Information
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Region: Magill Estate, Adelaide, South Australia (single vineyard)
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Variety: 100% Shiraz
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Alcohol: ~14.5%
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Maturation: 14–16 months in French (30% new) & American oak (70% new) hogsheads
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Closure: Cork
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Drinking Window: 2018–2040
A Collectible Gem
The 2013 Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz is a powerful and expressive single-vineyard wine from Penfolds’ historic home. Combining ripe fruit concentration with savoury complexity and structure, it stands as a collectible Shiraz of pedigree and longevity.
