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There is no name more trusted in Australian winemaking than Penfolds. That iconic red logo emblazoned across the signature white label has long been a symbol of undeniable quality and prestige. It represents an approach to the vinicultural arts that has gone from strength to strength since it first appeared in 1844, a pattern that affirmed itself once more in 2019 when the brand started a historic partnership with the family-owned Champagne house Thiénot. Now, this exciting collaboration is reaching even greater heights with the launch of the incredible new Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV, a landmark release entirely worthy of the Penfolds name.
First showcased at Hôtel de Crillon in Paris in February 2024 as a means of kicking off the year-long celebrations for the winemaker’s 180th anniversary, this incredible drop is the latest embodiment of Penfolds’ love for Champagne, which has bubbled away consistently since the 19th century. Offering a sumptuous bouquet of aromas and flavours, the release is sure to make a splash both at home and abroad.
An Epic Journey in a Glass
So what makes Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV so remarkable? Starting with the nose, it opens with a sumptuously exotic mix of white petals, including lily, chamomile, and seringat, before a fine mousse propels further botanic scents, including Mexican orange blossom and Yuzu orange citrus.
On the palate, flavours swirl and hum, at first reminiscent of a just-baked Tarte au Citron meringuée and evolving to include subtle notes of raspberry pastille, nougat and vanilla bean. Don’t be surprised if you find layers of assorted sherbert that provides a tingling acidity, while outstanding citrus notes arrive clean and pure, free of bitterness.
Having emptied your glass, you’ll find that notes of roasted nut, vanillin pod, and custard-apple remain, providing a wonderful finishing touch.
When Masters Collaborate
According to Penfolds Chief Winemaker Peter Gago, the Champagne Cuvée Brut NV continues Penfolds tradition of irresistibly drinkable Champagnes: “Following in the footsteps of the single-vineyard Grand Cru 2012, 2013 and 2014 Thiénot x Penfolds Avize Blanc de Blancs and 2012, 2013 and 2014 Aÿ Blanc de Noirs, this is such an appealing Champagne, a perfect aperitif offer for spring (and the rest of the year for that matter!). An inaugural N/V Cuvée release that beckons interest and adds to the allure of the earlier-released Non-Vintage Rosé Champagne.”
It’s certainly an enthralling example of the power of cooperation between the two winemaking powerhouses. As a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, it perfectly illustrates how finding the right balance can create something extraordinary.
“Since the beginning of our partnership, we consistently create blends reflective of both Thiénot and Penfolds wine styles and philosophies,” said Champagne Thiénot managing director, Stanislas Thiénot. “Our Champagnes are modern reflections showcasing fruit, freshness, and finesse.”
Where to Purchase
To secure a bottle of this instant classic for yourself, simply drop by your local fine wine retailer. This release is available nationally at AUD$79.00 for 750ml. To learn more about the Penfolds Champagne Cuvée Brut NV, simply visit the Penfolds website via the link below.
