One of Australia's most renowned domaines, Penfolds was founded in 1844 by the English doctor Christopher Rawson Penfolds. In its beginnings the domaine produced mainly fortified wines (in the style of Port or Sherry) although dry whites and reds were also made. From 1900, the estate built up an admirable reputation thanks to the ageing potential of its fine reds. From 1950 onwards, Penfolds began producing exclusively red wines made from the Syrah grape varietal by their cellar master Max Schubert. Over the years the domaine has been merged with various companies to become today the property of Treasury Wine Estates. The vineyard is situated in the heart of the Adelaide hills in southern Australia. Penfolds is the standard bearer for fine Australian wine thanks to the high quality and consistency of its cuvées from the flagship to the entry level wines. This is quite a feat considering the estate spans 700 hectares. When it comes to the New World, Penfolds is a leading light.