2021 Bin 169
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Tasting notes
So young that the aromatics are still hidden, silky, dark bitter chocolate, cassis, crushed mint and graphite. Thoroughly delicious, this has so much potential, a total knock out, delivering a slow build and slow construction through the palate. There was no Bin 707 or 169 in 2020 because of wildfires, so this is the first in two years. 100% French oak, 51% new. Tasted in Paris and Bordeaux in the same week. Delicious both times. Peter Gago winemaker.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
More reviews and scores
The 2021 Bin 169 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon is the premium Cabernet in the range that matured in French oak (16 months, 51% new) and (70% American oak), and as a result, perhaps unsurprisingly, it is the more elegant wine of the pair on release. You get leafy cassis, raspberry, red apple skins, ferrous notes, pomegranate molasses, tobacco and some bay leaf—very pleasing. An intensely powerful wine, it's robust in its way but lithe too. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.
With presence and poise in spades, this classically styled and refined 2021 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon offers seamless aromas of cassis, graphite and dried herbs featuring beautifully integrated oak. Tightly framed cedar flavors are currently prominent against a backdrop of sinewy tannins that drive a lengthy finish. This is a very serious Cabernet showcasing this classy Coonawarra vintage.
The region had a dry start to the growing season despite a wetter-than-average February. Spring was notably warm and no frost damage was reported. Overall, summer and autumn conditions were cooler than average, allowing slow ripening. Aged for 16 months in French oak hogsheads (51% new, 49% one year old). TA 6.5 g/l, pH 3.65. There’s something disconcertingly rhubarb-like about the fruit here. Quite a contrast to the energy and freshness of the RWT Shiraz. It’s just not speaking to me, I’m afraid. Big and bold but hard work on the end. (JR)
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.