CHAMPAGNE THIÉNOT X PENFOLDS

The 2019 release of the Champagne Thiénot x Penfolds collaboration at the Ritz Hotel in Paris was timed to coincide with Penfolds 175th anniversary. It marked the beginning of a number of new projects in France, where Max Schubert was first inspired to make Grange in 1950.

The Thiénot x Penfolds Champagne project is a cross-cultural exchange that promises to unlock new ideas and to progress Penfolds beyond Australian shores. Three wines were made in partnership with Thiénot Bordeaux-Champagnes an important family wine company with ownership or access to 725 hectares of Cru vineyards. It has invested in modern cellars, technology, management organisations and skilled winemakers, becoming one of France s most innovative and imaginative wine businesses. Penfolds Chief Winemaker, Peter Gago, was hands-on in creating create three exemplary Champagnes not unexpectedly a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir, and also two single-vineyard Grand Crus.

While this collaboration may appear to be a curiosity to some, it should be remembered that Penfolds began making sparkling wines well over a century ago. Australians have had a great love affair with sparkling wine since the 1870s and many collectors have wondered whether Penfolds would ever make sparkling wine again. But after an extended hiatus, Penfolds has harnessed its heritage and aspirations to return to this popular style this time with a Champagne, no less.

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