Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz: An Australian Icon of Power and Elegance

Experience the legendary Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz, a wine deeply embedded in Australia's fine wine heritage and often affectionately referred to as 'Baby Grange'. This remarkable bottling, first crafted in 1960 by the visionary winemaker Max Schubert, masterfully combines the robust structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the opulent richness of Shiraz, creating a wine that has helped forge Penfolds' esteemed reputation among red wine drinkers worldwide.

Penfolds' story began in 1844, establishing a legacy of quality and innovation that continues to this day. Max Schubert, a pivotal figure in Penfolds' history, not only created the iconic Grange but also envisioned a 'dynasty of wines which all bear an unmistakable resemblance to each other'. Bin 389 is a core part of this dynasty, named after its original binning compartment at the historic Magill cellars. Its connection to Grange is more than stylistic; components of Bin 389 are matured in the very same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange, imparting a unique depth and complexity. This practice contributes to its 'Baby Grange' moniker and its standing as the most popular wine in the Australian secondary wine market, prized for its heritage, consistency, and outstanding reputation. As Penfolds Red Winemaker, Andrew Baldwin, notes, this wine is "both an ode to tradition and an expression of modern excellence."

Bin 389 exemplifies the judicious balance of fruit and oak, consistently highlighting the generous mid-palate that is a hallmark of the Penfolds style. It is a multi-regional blend, sourcing grapes from some of South Australia's finest vineyards to achieve a harmonious and complete wine.

Tasting Notes: A Journey Through Flavour and Texture

The Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is a compelling wine that offers a rich and evolving sensory experience.

• Colour: The wine presents a glossy, dark red/purple hue, deep and inviting, hinting at the concentration and quality within.
• Nose: The aromatics are immediately engaging, offering what can only be described as an "old school" Penfolds nose – a classic and comforting homage to the winery’s storied past. It opens with the rich, deep tones of mahogany and the refined scent of a cigar box. These mature notes are beautifully interwoven with sweet oak spices and a subtle, dusty character that adds an element of distinguished age. This sophisticated foundation is then lifted by an array of summer berries, offering a delightful balance between richness and vitality. Further exploration reveals distinct baking spice aromas alongside tart red currant and cranberry, adding a bright, fruity counterpoint. The suggestion of fresh pastries rounds out the aromatic profile, adding a touch of comforting warmth.
• Palate: Upon tasting, the palate is immediately enveloped by fine, cocoa powder-like tannins – smooth and velvety, yet profound in their impact and contribution to the wine’s structure. The wine boasts impressive volumes of Cabernet Sauvignon character, showcasing cool, well-lifted, and vibrant dark fruits. A subtle barrel ferment nuance adds an extra layer of depth and complexity without overshadowing the fruit's inherent purity. Emerging sourdough notes bring a pleasingly rustic edge, which complements the lush profiles of plum fruits, succulent blackberry, and sweet mulberry. Bright wild cherry notes and the more distinctly tart character of Morello cherries provide a vibrant lift, ensuring the palate remains lively and engaging through to a long and satisfying finish.

Serving Suggestions for Optimal Enjoyment

To fully appreciate the intricate character and robust profile of Penfolds Bin 389, serving it at a temperature between 16-18°C (60-64°F) is recommended. Given its structure and complexity, decanting for at least an hour, or even two for younger vintages, is highly advisable. This allows the wine to breathe, softening the tannins and enabling the full spectrum of its aromatic complexities to unfold, offering a more generous and expressive tasting experience. Use large, high-quality red wine glasses to allow for ample aeration and to concentrate the wine's appealing bouquet.

Detailed Food Matches: A Harmony of Rich Flavours

The robust structure, concentrated fruit, and savoury undertones of Bin 389 make it an outstanding partner for a variety of richly flavoured dishes.

• Prime Cuts of Beef: A classic pairing, consider grilled or pan-seared ribeye steak, a hearty sirloin, or a perfectly roasted fillet of beef, perhaps served with a red wine reduction. The wine's tannins will meld beautifully with the protein.
• Lamb Dishes: Roast leg or shoulder of lamb, particularly when seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and perhaps a hint of anchovy, offers a superb pairing. Lamb shanks slow-cooked in a rich sauce would also be an exceptional match.
• Game Meats: For those who enjoy richer game, consider roast venison loin, a hearty game pie featuring pheasant or partridge, or even wild boar sausages. The wine’s dark fruit and spice notes will stand up well to these more intense flavours.
• Hearty Vegetarian Dishes: Bin 389 can accompany robust vegetarian fare with great success. Think of a rich mushroom and lentil shepherd’s pie, baked aubergine parmigiana, or a well-seasoned nut roast.
• Barbecued Meats: The smoky char and concentrated flavours of barbecued red meats, such as beef ribs or a well-marbled steak, are beautifully complemented by the depth of Bin 389.

Cheese Pairing Recommendation:

For a truly complementary cheese pairing with Penfolds Bin 389, seek out a mature, hard British cheese with considerable character. A vintage Farmhouse Cheddar, such as a Keen's or a Montgomery's, aged for at least 18-24 months, would be an excellent choice. The sharp, nutty, and often complex earthy notes of these powerful cheddars provide a delightful contrast and complement to the wine's dark fruit profile, structural tannins, and savoury undertones. The cheese's texture and savoury character will harmonise with the wine’s structure, creating a balanced and highly enjoyable pairing experience.

Acclaim from the Critics:

The Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz consistently garners high praise from the world's most respected wine critics, a testament to its enduring quality and iconic status:

• 98 Points - Andrew Caillard MW
• 97 Points - David Sly, Decanter
• 95 Points - Tyson Stelzer
• 95 Points - Ken Gargett
• 95 Points - Jeni Port, Winepilot

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is more than just a wine; it is a cornerstone of Australian winemaking tradition and a benchmark for the Cabernet Shiraz blend. It offers a rewarding experience in its youth and possesses the pedigree for magnificent cellaring, promising further evolution and complexity for many years to come.