| Brand | Penfolds |
| Appellation | Australia |
| Vintage | 2019 |
| Oak Treatment | French Oak |
| Aging | 12 months |
| Total Varietal Composition % | Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz |
Product details
Penfolds Bin 600 marks the beginning of Penfolds' journey in California, tracing its roots back over twenty years. In 1998, Penfolds imported vine cuttings from South Australia's prestigious Kalimna and Magill Estate vineyards, planting them in Californian soil at the Creston "600" Ranch, now known as Camatta Hills vineyard. The wine’s name, Bin 600, honors this pivotal moment in Penfolds' American story, with grapes from these original cuttings featured in the Cabernet Shiraz blend, reflecting Penfolds' commitment to excellence in their modern winemaking.
This medium-bodied blend reveals a complex array of aromas and flavors. The nose is greeted by wafting spices—clove, sage, and turmeric—alongside notes of cold coffee grounds, raw coconut kernel, and jasmine tea. On the palate, sweet licorice and potent aniseed form the backbone, adding to the wine's glycerous texture. Additional layers of flavor emerge, including pepper-rubbed pastrami, rare roast beef, cocoa dusting, semi-dried dates, and freshly harvested persimmons. The oak subtly supports the varietal blend, allowing the vibrant blackberry and quince notes to shine.
Penfolds Bin 389, often called 'Baby Grange,' is a distinguished red wine that blends the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz. Originally crafted in 1960 by Max Schubert, this wine has played a pivotal role in establishing Penfolds' reputation among red wine enthusiasts. Aged in barrels previously used for Grange, Bin 389 showcases a perfect balance of fruit and oak, with a generous mid-palate that defines the Penfolds style.
The wine presents a complex bouquet of cola, grated chocolate, juniper, and spices, with subtle hints of brown sugar, licorice, and blood orange rind. While the oak influence is subdued, the scents of cedar and graphite suggest further potential with bottle aging. On the palate, it offers fresh and fleshy fruit flavors, including licorice, stewed plum, and blackcurrant, complemented by dark chocolate and mocha. The wine is savory with mouth-watering acidity, integrated tannins, and a signature 'sweet' core that leads to an impressive, polished, refined finish.
