Penfolds Bin 389 Cabarnet Shiraz
Bin 389 is often referred to as ‘Baby Grange’, in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure of cabernet sauvignon with the richness of shiraz. Bin 389 exemplifies the judicious balance of fruit and oak.
COLOUR: Bright garnet.
NOSE: An immediate ascent of scent – no need to wait or to vigorously swirl this wine to tease out ‘what lies beneath’! Dark berry fruits consistent to both varietal persuasions, (cabernet and shiraz), overtly courted by elements of ponzu, soy, sesame and dried shiitake mushroom. Senses are easily conveyed to a forest after rain – wet bracken, liberated mulch, damp soils. Naturally (new and used) oak plays a (minor) role in this fanciful aromatic romp.
PALATE: Flavours and textures akin to marbled Kobe beef and an earthy accompaniment of black liquorice root and anise.