For almost two hundred years, Penfolds has been steeped in the ways of wine-making blended with craftsmanship, tradition and innovation. From its storied beginnings in 1844, Penfolds has embarked on a journey of exploration — of grape varieties, terroirs and striking the perfect balance between heritage and modernity. While its roots lie deep in Australian soil, its ambitions have extended beyond as it seeks and transcends borders to craft the finest wines.

Even though red and white wines remain Penfolds’ core focus, the winemaker took on a side quest of sorts as they ventured to Champagne and met the Champagne House Thiénot. A new milestone was marked there in the revered French region, home to the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines, as the Penfolds Cuvée Brut NV Champagne was launched to mark Penfolds’ 180th anniversary.

However, Penfolds’ fascination with sparkling wines is not new. In the early 1900s, Frank Penfold Hyland acquired the Michinbury vineyard and appointed Leo Buring, trained in the Champagne methodology, to oversee production. Penfolds’ rapport grew over the years, and while Minchinbury was sold in the 1970s, the spirit of innovation in sparkling winemaking remained alive, evolving into this latest elegant and contemporary imbued with Penfolds’ unmistakable touch.

In an industry dominated by historic names, Champagne Thiénot carved and developed its niche in 1985, priding itself on a modern, fruit-forward approach to Champagne-making. The Penfolds Cuvée Brut NV is a result of collaboration as the best of both Champagne Thiénot and Penfolds’ worlds and savoir-faire are harnessed. Crafted under the guidance and watchful eyes of Penfolds Chief Winemaker Peter Gago and Thiénot’s Chef de Cave Nicolas Uriel, a blend consisting of 45% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Meunier, and 20% Chardonnay was agreed — each varietal lending its unique character to the final composition

In Gago’s taste notes, he noted the Penfolds Cuvée Brut NV Champagne as “A perfect aperitif Champagne offer for Spring (and the rest of the year!) — purity/ freshness/ relaxed,” and “Friendly — a style that doesn’t confront, it embraces. Emotive, not cerebral.” In that very aspect, the liquid is elegant and approachable. On the nose, it exudes an aromatic bouquet of white florals — lily, chamomile, and Mexican orange blossom — lifting effortlessly with a fine, persistent mousse. Subtle hints of roasted nuts, vanilla pod, and custard apple provide a comforting warmth, adding depth to its fragrant complexity.

The palate is where the Penfolds Cuvée Brut NV Champagne truly shines. Lively citrus notes dance across the tongue, reminiscent of a freshly baked Tarte au Citron meringuée, balanced by delicate whispers of raspberry pastille and nougat. A refined acidity enlivens the experience, with sherbet-like brightness giving way to a clean, pure finish. Gentle and ethereal, it is a Champagne that doesn’t demand attention but rather invites appreciation — effortless yet sophisticated, celebratory yet timeless.

As Penfolds continues to expand its global footprint, the release of this Cuvée Brut NV Champagne is a testament to its relentless pursuit of excellence. From the vineyards of Australia to the chalky soils of Champagne, the journey has been extraordinary — and in every sip, a legacy unfolds and revisited.

This article was first seen on Men’s Folio Singapore.

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