Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet-Shiraz 2021/2022

Penfolds Bin 389 is one of Australia’s most iconic and collected red wines, famously known as "Baby Grange" because it is matured in the same American oak barrels that held the previous vintage of Penfolds Grange. First released in 1960, it is celebrated for its seamless marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure and Shiraz’s richness. The wine typically offers an opulent bouquet of black cherry, dark plum, and cassis, layered with savory notes of dill, roasted coffee, and subtle vanilla bean. On the palate, it is full-bodied and impeccably balanced, showcasing a dense core of black fruit framed by firm, ripe tannins and a persistent, spicy finish. It is highly regarded for its exceptional longevity and cellaring potential.

2021 Vintage Ratings:

94 Points - James Suckling

The 'mini Grange', as it is known. Robust, with a core of molten raspberry, blueberry, tea leaf and anise, juxtaposed against something that feels cooler and fresher and compelling enough to reach for the next glass. Very Australian of feel. I have had old vintages of this, some very old. They are inevitably a rewarding experience. The generous oak framework, apposite in lieu of this latent wine's immense potential. Drinkable now, but best from 2027.

94 Points - Wine Spectator

Rich, dense and succulent, with dark chocolate, black walnut liqueur, mocha and chocolate-covered maraschino cherry flavors that ooze generously on a plush frame. Accents of singed palo santo, tobacco leaf, black olive and baking spices linger on the long, expressive finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Drink now through 2037. 9,330 cases imported.

2022 Vintage Ratings:

94 Points - Wine Spectator

Generous and impressive for its seamlessness, this is like a slice of Black Forest cake, offering chocolate and cherry flavors that are practically creamy and plush. Dutched cocoa powder, dried herb and cigar box nuances amplify this red on the long finish, with velvety tannins alongside hints of fresh loam and clove. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Drink now through 2036. 8,565 cases imported.

94 Points - Wine Enthusiast

93 Points - James Suckling

A crunchy and delicious blend with currant, blackberry and cedar aromas and flavors. Hints of bitter lemon, graphite and tar at the end. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2022 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is a dense beast of a wine, and the many lovers of the style will will experience paroxysms of pleasure, in that this delivers the muscle, density and concentration of yore. It is powerfully tannic, abundantly fruitful and long through the finish. What more can be said of a wine like this other than that it is a firm style, made consistently year in and year out. Aniseed, nutmeg, cinnamon and malt populate the register of spices from the charry oak. This is a big, big wine. It is composed of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Shiraz, sourced from a blend of McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Padthaway and Wrattonbully. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.