2011 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz
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Tasting notes
Upfront oak gives a very svelte, Rioja-esque spice to the palate. Ripe, jammy fruit with lovely softness and plenty of primary fruit still going. The oak, which is well integrated, is the main element of complexity but perhaps I would have liked a bit more earthiness by now? Modern, typical and just a little formulaic. (RH)
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Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
49% Cabernet Sauvignon. Very dark purplish crimson indeed. Quite sweet and medicinal on the nose with spiny sharp concentration and lots of acidity. Masses of tannins. No shortage of delivery here even though it’s a 2011! Correct and fresh but a bit tough. (JR)
Bin 389 is often referred to as ‘Poor Man’s Grange’ or ‘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. 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Shiraz, from McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley. 12 months in 30% new, 70% 1-year-old American oak hogsheads. TA 6.3 g/l, pH 3.63. According to Gago, this is the wine that Penfolds winemakers buy most, and it vies with Grange for the title of most-cellared Australian red. Very dark. Rich fruit, the oak in the background. Cassis and blackberry. Some declassified Grange and 701 in this year. Some red barrel ferment. Very Cabernet on the palate, fresh refined cassis. There's a really fine tight structure of acid and tannin but filled out with the beautifully juicy fresh fruit. Long. Gago suggests this 2011 should be broached before the 2008 and 2010 vintages. (JH)
A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz, the very deep purple-black colored 2011 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is a little youthfully mute, showing cassis and black cherries on the nose alongside hints of pencil shavings, licorice, chocolate, pepper and meat. More cedar flavor shows up in the firm and structured, medium-bodied palate marked by a high level of grainy tannins, a lively acid backbone and a long finish. It needs time in bottle. 5,130 9L case imported to the US. Drink 2015 to 2025+. Imported by Treasury Wine Estates, Napa, CA
About the producer
Penfolds is Australia’s most famous wine producer, known best for their iconic top wine, Grange. First produced commercially in 1952, Grange has since gone on to become one of the world’s most famous fine wines. In 2001, the wine was listed as an Australian heritage icon.