Bin 169 2018 Penfolds

Professionele reviews

Robert Parker (96)

In effect, this is to Bin 707 as RWT is to Grange, a single-region expression of a classic regional variety, aged in 100% French oak. Would that it were priced similarly to RWT, but production is more limited, and the Chinese have seemingly fallen in love in Cabernet. The 2018 Bin 169 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (there was no 2017 bottled) boasts sumptuous aromas of ripe cassis, accented by hints of vanilla, cedar shavings, tobacco and baking spices. It's full-bodied, plush and velvety, but with a firm spine at its core that drives home the lengthy finish and strong varietal identity. Ideally, it needs a few years in the cellar to show its best, with potential longevity of two decades or more.

James Suckling (97)

A very elegantly complex nose with meticulously fresh aromas that range from red florals to violets, blueberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants and such sweetly perfumed cedary-oak spice. The palate has a very elegant, focused and piercingly central delivery of fine tannins,carrying pristine redcurrant and blackcurrant flavors. Seamlessly long, super fine and really packed with concentrated, contained, red-cherry and redcurrant flavors. Impressive.

BOW (8.50)

Jancis Robinson (18)

First vintage 1973, revived in 2008. Does for 707 Cabernet what RWT does for Grange (ie protects the style), according to Peter Gago. French oak.
Less ripe than the 407; the fruit is more 'European' dare I say, while retaining the Australian glossiness. Still very compact and closed, yet shining brightly, somehow. A tour de force. (RH)

Falstaff (96)

Deep dark, opaque ruby ​​garnet, violet reflections, very delicate edge brightening. Fine herbal spice, smoky fresh red wild berries, a hint of currants, nuances of orange blossom and cloves, attractive bouquet. Powerful, yet juicy and elegant, black fruit, a hint of creme de cassis, ripe, round tannins, good freshness, mineral and well-lingering, fine sweet aftertaste, some nougat, will benefit from further aging in the bottle.