Penfolds 2020 Bin 389

Indulge in the legacy of Penfolds with the 2020 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz, often hailed as the 'Baby Grange' for its connection to the iconic wine. Crafted by the legendary Max Schubert in 1960, this masterpiece seamlessly blends the structure of cabernet sauvignon with the opulence of shiraz, embodying the artistry that defines Penfolds. The wine, matured in barrels that once cradled the previous Grange vintage, is a testament to the winery's commitment to excellence.

This symphony of flavors originates from McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, and Padthaway – regions that contribute their unique terroir to the blend. The 2020 vintage faced challenges, with winter drought persisting for the second consecutive year. However, Penfolds' expertise prevailed, ensuring irrigation sustained the vineyards. The result is a wine that triumphs over adversity, with outstanding parcels of grapes harvested under the watchful eye of the Australian climate.

The deep garnet core and crimson rim of the wine foretell its richness. The nose, tightly coiled, releases the sweet embrace of American oak – baking spices, icing sugar dusting, and the allure of vanilla bean. The interplay of cabernet and shiraz is a harmonious dance, offering traditional German sweet treats and a medley of fresh black cherries and ripe black plums.

On the palate, the wine is a well-defined revelation. The forward-facing line and length showcase the fascinating interplay between cabernet sauvignon and shiraz, providing not only length and structure but also width and density that completely fill the palate. The trademark creamy Bin 389 mid-palate is an anticipation fulfilled, even in the flush of youth.

The complexity of flavors unfolds with savoury nuances of freshly sliced fennel, pan-wilted radicchio leaf, and pickled turnips. Moroccan lamb backstraps on eggplant relish, accompanied by red liquorice and cherry, provide a sweet counterpoint. Evolved tannins seamlessly drive the palate structure, ensuring a wine that will last for decades, reaching its peak drinking potential between 2023 and 2050.

Elevate your wine experience with Penfolds 2020 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz – a symphony of flavors, a triumph of craftsmanship, and a legacy in every sip.

Alcohol: 14.5%

96 POINTS - "Looking in on the 389 can be "'can be," she says, parenthetically) a good insight into what we can expect from the upcoming Grange. Now, they are very different wines, no question, however, stylistically they have much in common and the illumination into the season that birthed the wines in each instance. Here, the 2020 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz has consummate polish and sleek tannins, imbued as they are with graphite, black tea, licorice and resin. The fruit is pure and black and chewy... gorgeous wine. And it lives for decades. This has always been a collector's dream and continues so through this vintage. Highly recommended." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

96 POINTS - "Very rich, ripe and intense, this has plenty of depth and is one of the strongest statements of Penfolds’ house style. Rich vanillin and sweetly spicy American oak on the nose, with chocolate, blueberry, violet, blackberry and iodine notes. The palate delivers quite approachable and supple texture, smoothly fleshy and inviting. Flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant and mulberry abound. Deep and ripe finish with nutty tannins to close. A blend of McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley and Padthaway. Drink or hold." - James Suckling

94 POINTS - "Dense and succulent, with velvety tannins and a core of spiced plum and blackberry. The details and aromatics take this wine to the next level—reminiscent of dark chocolate and Black Forest cake, Kalamata olive, nutmeg and palo santo. Gains momentum on the long, expressive finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Drink now through 2037." - Wine Spectator

Colour:

Deep garnet core, crimson rim.

Nose:

Tightly coiled. Sweet American oak evident – baking spices, icing sugar dusting. Italian Crostoli, cinnamon scrolls, Madagascan vanilla bean. The fruit has such density, the yin and yang of cabernet and shiraz, a Penfolds staple. No tussle for varietal supremacy, harmonious. Traditional German Kuchen (cake shop) sweet treats, walnut torte with ganache frosting, raspberry coulis, pouring cream. Fresh black cherries and ripe black plums. From the savoury sphere, hints of seared wagyu seasoned with cracked pepper. Sundried tomatoes, salsa verde and kalamata olive tapenade.

Palate:

A well-defined focus on palate. Forward facing – line and length. The fascinating interplay between cabernet sauvignon and shiraz providing not only considerable length and structure, but also width and density. Result... completely filling the palate. Always anticipated, a trademark creamy Bin 389 mid-palate. A wine with much to offer even in the flush of youth. Complexing flavours: savoury nuances of freshly sliced fennel, pan wilted radicchio leaf and pickled turnips. Moroccan lamb backstraps on eggplant relish. Red liquorice and cherry provide a sweet counterpoint. Evolved tannins seamlessly drive the palate structure. Will last many decades, if you can wait that long.