Drinking Window: 2021 - 2049
Critic tasting note: "This almost 50-50 blend of Cabernet and Shiraz has, like many of Penfolds' other premium wines, risen steeply in price in recent years, and with Bin 389's price tag heading rapidly toward triple digits, the liquid inside struggles to justify it. Like the brand's other reds, this is a polished and plush wine, offering notes of plum and raisin bread, mocha, milky coffee and black olive. It's rich and silky textured with muscular, herbal tannins and an eye toward the future. Drink 2022–2034. Christina Pickard" - 90/100, Wine Enthusiast
Vineyard Notes: Padthaway, McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Wrattonbully, Barossa Valley
Vintage Notes
The South-East growing districts of South Australia enjoyed above-average winter rainfall, while McLaren Vale and the Barossa Valley recorded well below-average. September temperatures were cool with little rainfall resulting in some isolated frost events. Summer was generally hot, with high temperatures delaying veraison. The Barossa Valley experienced 31 days of temperatures exceeding 35°C, while Coonawarra experienced 20 days of temperature greater than 35°C during the months December to March. Irrigation was crucial to keep vines in good health. The proximity of the Southern Ocean played an important role in moderating temperatures in Coonawarra, Wrattonbully and Padthaway, allowing for a high-quality harvest, albeit with smaller yields than average. Although yields were lower, the quality was outstanding with both shiraz and cabernet sauvignon displaying excellent colours, firm tannin profiles and intense flavours.
Ageing: 12 Months In American Oak Hogsheads (25% New)
Producer Tasting Notes
Ample self-standing fruits already beginning to yield to other vinous intents. Cola, grated chocolate and cappuccino dust bind with juniper and spices. A flash of brown sugar and liquorice - not quite in the Marsala spectrum - instead, brandy impressions replaced by blood orange-rind. Oak somewhat partially hidden, yet faint scents of cedar and graphite lobby for further bottle maturation. Unabashed (Baby Grange) complexities. On the palate, instantly fresh and fleshy. Some overt single-varietal cabernet and shiraz fruits still sit separate... time will unite... Expected liquorice, stewed plum and blackcurrant, with dark chocolate and mocha in the background. Savoury and salivating - mouth-watering, succulent acidity. This acidity interplays with integrated tannins - coating the mouth and adding length.
