Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2021 750ml

Affectionately known as ‘Baby Grange’, matured in the barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange.

On the nose is a kaleidoscope of aromas. First noted, sweet pastries. Blueberry Danish and chocolate croissant. Sugar dusting. The fruits of the forest are quick to emerge, fresh blackberries and mulberries dominant. There is the faintest suggestion of formic acid, Max Schubert would approve. Dried bay leaf, pink peppercorns and black cardamom add spicy intrigue. The imagination conjures thoughts rare roast beef with black pepper crust, seared venison loin, coal dust, cocoa powder and graphite. With a swirl, aniseed/licorice notes become pronounced.

The palate is a flawless integration of the two varietals, neither dominating but working together in harmony. The aromas descriptors deftly match the palate. Flavours of black fruit and red fruit compote abound. Cocoa powder sweetness adds weight to the substantial mid-palate. There are plenty of savoury flavours to balance out the sweetness, with cold sliced salted beef, roast lamb cooking juices and cured pastrami. The tannins are fine, reminiscent of Oolong tea, providing plenty of structure. The delicious fruit is married seamlessly with the creamy American oak. The latter complimenting rather than dominating. A fine seam of acid provides a refreshing lift on the finish. Very approachable now, but with plenty to offer down the track.