Based on the philosophy that good wine is made in the vineyard, great care was taken with the original plantings and this level of vineyard rigour continues today. The estate grown varieties are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Fiano. The grapes for Penna’s distinctive Riesling styles are also grown locally, within the Skilly Valley and Watervale sub-regions of the Clare Valley. The vines receive pr
otection from the harshest of the summer temperatures due to the altitude of the estate. Growing at an elevation of approximately 450 metres, the grapes benefit from a long, slow ripening period, which intensifies their flavour. Mostly dry grown, the vines are watered only during periods of extreme dryness. Trellising consists of a single fruiting wire and moveable foliage wires, which enable the shoots to be vertically positioned for better bunch exposure. This allows the grapes to achieve maximum ripeness and stronger flavour. The altitude, climate and soil structure of the vineyard combine to produce award winning wines that are worthy representatives of this beautiful region.