Mary Penfold: The True Story of the Great Australian Winemaker

by Grantlee Kieza

400 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication July 28, 2026

Reviews

[Gary Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodreads Review, ‘Mary Penfold’ by Grantlee Kieza

Another entertaining and enjoyable biography by Grantlee Kieza who has written some bangers in the last couple of years. My favourite being his superb and tragic biography of Henry Lawson. In this story he delves into the world of Penfolds Wine. Also how again the figures behind the protagonist are in many biographical stories the people behind the scenes. Mary Penfold built a wine machine that started from the most humble beginnings to the corporation it became. Great insight into the challenges and great difficulties of settling in Australia in the very early days of the colony. The complete misery of Mary (Holt’s) Penfold’s parents who never recovered psychologically from the damage Mary’s lifetime one way journey to Australia. A time when letters between people took years between receive and response. A wonderful and extremely engaging history of Australia’s wine industry. A topic I didn’t think would capture my imagination. Grantlee Kieza has delivered another fascinating biography that’s well worth your time to read. Bought hardcover for $30 from Big W Library. Enjoy.

[Colin Ibbott · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written history providing an insight into the growth of Australian vineyards and wine production from the early years post 1788, with the rightful focus on Mary Penfold who was the force behind the development of the first Penfold vineyard, Magill Estate just west of the Adelaide hills, initially for the purpose of providing wine for the medical treatment of the patients of her husband Chris. It also provides an important insight into some of the medical practices of the time, and more importantly the varying rights of women and indigenous personnel across the various new colonies of Australia. To Mary’s credit she rose above the prejudices of the times and single-handedly drove the development of the Penfold business after the “early” death of her Dr husband.

[Saturday's Child · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another outstanding read by Grantlee Kieza. While I am familiar with Penfolds Wines I had no idea just how much input Mary had into the creation of this business. I am always pleased to read the story of pioneering woman and her contributions.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book so interesting. I lived in SA for a few years in the Adelaide Hills as my husband was working as a winemaker there. A fascinating history of the Australian wine industry. I toast you Mary Penfold, an unsung pioneer of the industry 🍷