Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet 2023

Winery Background and History

Penfolds, founded in Adelaide in 1844, has built a reputation for combining tradition and innovation across its wine ranges. The Koonunga Hill label, introduced in the 1970s and named after a Barossa vineyard, offers accessible, fruit-forward wines that express Penfolds’ hallmark consistency and value. The Shiraz-Cabernet blend captures the approachable Aussie red style: balanced, generous, and widely enjoyed. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Crafted by Penfolds’ in-house winemaking team under Chief Winemaker Peter Gago, the Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet 2023 reflects their approach of careful multi-region fruit sourcing, blending for texture, structure, and expressive varietal character in every vintage. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2023 vintage draws from premium vineyards across South Australia. The blend benefits from diverse microclimates—from warm inland regions contributing lush fruit to cooler sites enhancing balance and fine structure. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Post-fermentation, the wine is matured in seasoned French and American oak. This imparts gentle oak support without overpowering the fruit, providing structural nuance and polish. 

Tasting Notes

Crimson red in the glass, the nose reveals peppercorn spice, red fruits, rhubarb, ironstone minerality, and savoury accents of brine and caperberry. The palate is generous with blackberry, white plum, and cherry layered with mocha and coffee. Fine powdery tannins and vibrant acidity lead to a polished, long finish with a “brick dust” texture. 

Additional tasting descriptors from retail sources include red berries, plums, biscottie/mocha spice, and a vibrant but value-rich structure. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled red meats (beef, lamb), richly spiced dishes, casseroles, and charcuterie. Its balance and fruit-spice interplay make it versatile with both dense and savory dishes. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C. A short decant (15–30 minutes) helps release aromas and soften tannins. Use a medium-to-large red wine glass to showcase its nuanced palate and aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

Penfolds suggests peak drinking from now through 2030. Proper cellar conditions (12–15 °C, stable) will preserve freshness and texture during this window. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon (exact percentages not publicly disclosed in the tasting note). 

ABV

14.5 %