Penley is an amalgamation of the Penfold and Tolley families. Both families had been in the wine business for a long time, but it wasn't until 1988 that the first scions purchased a piece of land and planted cabernet sauvignon on it. In 1989, they won gold with it at the Adelaide Wine Show and realized that winemaking should become their life's goal. The passion continued, and in 1995 an impressive estate was built that greatly increased the prestige of the wines. Penley Estate is a thoroughly Australian story that translates into accessible wines of superb quality.
Penley Estate is one of Coonawarra's leading wineries and one of the best makers of cabernet-sauvignon, shiraz and red assemblages in the country. Penley Estate winemaker Kate Goodman (pictured center) is considered one of Australia's finest contemporary winemakers. Kate makes wines with freshness and vibrancy - seeking structure and expression of fruit - while maintaining the integrity of the varietal. All Penley wines are made from homegrown grapes and registered by The Vegan Society. Hans Loder looks after the quality of the grapes and vineyard. He is a master of his craft.
Hans looks for balance and takes a very holistic approach to winemaking practices, seeking a balance between the soil and the vine.