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Created to reflect a contemporary winemaking approach, emphasising both regionality and maturation of Cabernet Sauvignon in fine grained French oak. A style that is immediately Penfolds, whilst simultaneously illustrative of its ongoing search for diversity and style separation. A classic reflection of the region and a testament of Penfolds longstanding commitment to the vineyards of Coonawarra.
Medium-bodied, tight. Very young — primal and fresh.
What’s most noted aromatically on the nose reappears on palate — redcurrant, mulberry leaf, fig, fleshy blood plum. Not unexpectedly, more telltale Cabernet-correct graphite/lead pencil notes evident on palate.
The do’s and don’ts of this Bin 169:
• Its disposition is fine, focussed and linear. It’s not broad, open, forward.
• Its flavours are often akin to the savoury — subtle lamb (agneau rôti) juices/fat. It’s not too overt or showy.
• Its tannins are fine and chalky confirming its genesis — Coonawarra red dirt, coating the palate. It’s not phenolically aggressive or chewy.
• Its oak has more of a structural impact. It’s not about adding hybrid flavours or masking fruit.
• Its age (and track record) mandates the potential to further evolve greater complexities. It’s not about the here and now.
• Its tension — an interplay of bright acidity and tannins, inducing definition/tightness. It’s not simply a loose knit, Cabernet flavoured red wine.
