Penfolds Bin 389 2016

Bin 389 is often referred to as ‘Baby Grange’, in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure of cabernet sauvignon with the richness of shiraz. Bin 389 exemplifies the judicious balance of fruit and oak.  

Autumn and winter were dry and cool across South Australia’s growing regions. Record low rainfall prevailed through September to March. These conditions delayed the start of the growing season in the Barossa Valley and other warmer regions. However, in cooler Coonawarra, budburst, flowering, veraison and harvest were all earlier than is usually expected. Warm conditions prevailed across all regions in the early part of the summer allowing vines to develop healthy canopies and good bunch set. Late rain in January and early February was a welcome relief across South Australia. Temperatures in spring and early summer were above the long-term average, resulting in an early harvest for shiraz. Cooler conditions followed from mid-February which suited the later ripening cabernet
sauvignon. Grapes across all the main growing regions were able to ripen evenly and develop desirable flavours. 

An immediate ascent of scent – no need to wait or to vigorously swirl this wine to tease out ‘what lies beneath’! Dark berry fruits consistent to both varietal persuasions, (cabernet and shiraz), overtly courted by elements of ponzu, soy, sesame and dried shiitake mushroom. Senses are easily conveyed to a forest after rain – wet bracken, liberated mulch, damp soils. Naturally (new and used) oak plays a (minor) role in this fanciful aromatic romp

Peak drinking 2020-2046