St Henri is a time-honoured and alternative expression of shiraz, and an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. It is unusual amongst high quality Australian red wines as it does not rely on any new oak. Released for the first time by Penfolds in the early 1950s (first commercial vintage 1957), it gained a new lease of life in the 1990s as its quality and distinctive style became better understood. Proudly, a wine style that hasnt succumbed to the dictates of fashion or commerce. St Henri is rich and plush when young, gaining soft, earthy, mocha-like characters with age. It is matured in an assortment of old large vats that allow the wine to develop, imparting minimal, if any oak character. Although a small proportion of cabernet may sneak into the blend, the focal point for St Henri remains shiraz.
Bin 707 is a Cabernet Sauvignon reflection of Grange, intensely-flavoured fruit, completion of fermentation and maturation in new oak, expressing a Penfolds understanding of multi-vineyard, multi-region fruit sourcing. Bin 707 was first vintaged in 1964. The wine was not made from 1970 to 1975 when fruit was directed to other wines, nor in 1981, 1995, 2000, 2003 or 2011 (when fruit of the required style and quality was not available). Full bodied and with proven cellaring potential, Bin 707 retains a secure place among the ranks of Australias finest Cabernets.
Bright plum in colour, Penfolds Bin 169 Cabernet Sauvignon displays delicate notes of mint and blackcurrant, with a more savory bouquet of semi-dried tomatoes and fruit chutney at the end. A hint of oak and spice adds extra warmth. On the palate a flavour-wheel of spearmint, milo powder, chocolate and black liquorice.
The structure of cabernet meets the richness of shiraz. A benchmark Penfolds wine and one of the most collected wines in Australia. Evocative barrel ferment character, plum, blackberry, wild cherry and exotic spice ensure the wine is true to style. Powder-line tannins and acidity ensure length & vibrancy.
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Holiday by NIGO Gift Box 2019
Bin 704 brings together Napa Valley’s varietal nuances with Penfolds House Style. The name Bin 704 draws inspiration from the “mirror” or “reverse” image of its Australian Bin 407 stablemate, a wine which also respects varietal expression. A showcase of succulent acidity and black fruits, ready to enjoy now or to be cellared for future indulgence.
Proudly, a wine style that hasn’t succumbed to the dictates of fashion or commerce. St Henri is rich and plush when young, gaining soft, earthy, mocha-like characters as it ages. It is matured in old, 1,460 litre vats that allow the wine to develop, imparting minimal, if any oak character. Although a small proportion of Cabernet is sometimes used to improve structure, the focal point for St Henri remains Shiraz.
Unmistakably, Grange, this 2012 vintage is complex, flamboyant and lifted. An aromatic multi-cultural characteristics. The earthiness is well integrated with the aromas of dark fruits, grounded coffee, red liquorice and black olives, which leads to a firmly structured finish.
Serious, self-assured. A generous fleshiness persists across the palate. Wild black cherries, cola, sarsaparilla. Sage leaves fried in nut-brown butter over grilled calves’ liver. Pistachio terrine. A fine graphite core and cherry succulence. Seamlessly woven tannins. The interplay between the oak, tannins and acid results in an even mouthfeel, a textural sheen. Cranberry acidity and succulence provide a lovely balance. Surprisingly approachable, given the varietal temperament. One to watch, will evolve beautifully over the next two/three decades.Bin 407 offers varietal definition and approachability, yet still with structure and depth of flavour. Textbook cabernet sauvignon, the varietally expressive Bin 407 highlights the rewards of Penfolds multi-region, multi vineyard blending, with a core of ripe fruit supported by sensitive use of French and American oak.
Ring in the Year of the Dragon with one of the world's most celebrated wines. The first commercial release of Grange coincided with the Year of the Dragon, bringing a unique sentiment to this release. Continuing an unbroken lineage from the very first experimental release, the 2019 Grange is full-bodied, powerful, and perfectly balanced - a gift that is sure to be treasured for years to come. Aromas; Automatically recognisable - formic and glacial higher notes. Beneath, a more familial oaked nuttiness recedes to reveal aromas of black licorice/anise/black olive. A shroud of condensed glazed fruits surrenders to reveal a fresher disposition … a coulis of berries and stone fruits; boiled beetroot. Upon sitting, a sprinkle of lavender and exotic spices almost completes the aromatic package - well, at least for another minute or two. Early days. Palate; Cohesion, vigour, sheen, poise. Fresh and balanced. Neither exaggerated nor over-ripe – lively blueberry and other youthful blue/black fruits bely the maturation timeline of this alluring blend. Certainly befitting this style, unmistakable barrel-ferment characters are undoubtedly more pronounced on palate than nose. If the mid-palate is somewhat formidable (ably supporting a thick/dense core), by contrast the back-palate is creamy and caressingly endearing. Expansive and full – washing away all ahead of it. Texturally, chewy/grainy tannins and just-right acidity. Peak Drinking: 2029 - 2065 Awards: • 98+ Points - Andrew Caillard MW • 98 Points - Tyson Stelzer • 98 Points - Ken Gargett • 98 Points - Jeni Port • 19+/20 Points - Matthew Jukes