Max's may be Penfolds's entry level, “drink now” range, but to this reviewer they're some of the brand's strongest. This wine opens with oodles of fresh, ripe blueberry and blackberry. Licorice root, cracked black pepper, mint, graphite and violet aromas quickly succeed. The palate is juicy and silky, with a crunchiness to the plump dark fruit and chiseled, chalky tannins. The American oak is well tucked, considering the winery's prodigious use of it. Drink now with a variety of protein, and through 2030.

A very purely-fruited, rich and ripe nose, gushing with luscious blackberries and cassis, with a smoky bacon undertone. Rich in the mouth with an even more intense blackcurrant and sweet mocha profile, a hint of graphite edging its way in. With a full body, moderate levels of acidity and a medium length, the light dusting of tannin helps to retain some freshness. But it is undeniably plush and voluptuous.