Penfolds Bin 95 Grange Hermitage Australia Shiraz Cabernet 1965

Product Description

Winery Background
Penfolds Grange, conceived in 1951 by Max Schubert, became Australia’s flagship red, combining Shiraz (and sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon) from the best vineyard sites across South Australia. The style was revolutionary for its time—rich, full-bodied, and built for extraordinary longevity. By the mid-1960s, Grange had firmly established itself as a serious contender on the world stage.

Vintage & Production
The 1965 vintage enjoyed a long, even ripening period, delivering grapes of excellent concentration and balance. Sourced from top Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale sites, with smaller parcels from Coonawarra, the blend featured a dominant Shiraz component supported by Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and aromatic lift. Vinified in open fermenters and matured for about 18 months in new American oak hogsheads, the 1965 stayed true to the Grange philosophy of opulence, structure, and longevity.

Tasting Notes
After six decades, the 1965 presents a deep garnet core with brick-orange edges. The bouquet is intensely mature yet remarkably fresh for its age, offering layers of dried plum, mulberry, dark chocolate, old leather, cedar, cigar box, and subtle mint. The palate is harmonious—sweet dark fruits interwoven with savoury spice, earthy truffle, and lingering oak complexity. Fine, resolved tannins lead to an exceptionally long, elegant finish.

Cellaring Potential
At nearly 60 years old, the 1965 is a rare survivor, with most bottles now fully mature. Well-cellared examples can still show vibrant life, but they are best enjoyed soon to capture their remaining freshness and finesse.

Food Pairing
Best appreciated on its own or with simple, high-quality fare such as roast lamb, venison, or aged hard cheeses—letting the wine’s history and complexity take Centre stage.

Story Behind the Wine
The 1965 vintage is a testament to Max Schubert’s determination. By this time, Grange had overcome early skepticism from Penfolds’ management and the wine industry, and was winning acclaim both in Australia and overseas. The 1965 is remembered as one of the most balanced and graceful expressions of early-era Grange, with a reputation for elegance over sheer power—a style that has made it especially prized among seasoned collectors.

Vintage Note