Penfolds 'Bin 389' Cabernet Shiraz 2018

Bin 389 holds a unique position as Grange's 'little sibling', created in 1960 as part of Max Schubert's vision for a dynasty of interconnected wines. This Cabernet Shiraz blend shares the same winemaking philosophy and techniques as the legendary Grange, including partial barrel fermentation and maturation in the same American oak hogsheads previously used for Grange. It represents exceptional value for those seeking the Penfolds house style without the premium price tag of their flagship wine.

The 2018 Bin 389 has an impressive cellaring potential extending to 2052, giving you over 30 years of aging opportunity. During this time, the wine will evolve from its current rich, full-bodied character with blackberry and dark chocolate notes into more complex tertiary flavours. The high-quality American oak and structured tannins provide the backbone necessary for this extended aging, though it's equally enjoyable now for those who prefer younger, fruit-forward expressions.

This full-bodied Cabernet Shiraz blend excels with rich, protein-heavy dishes that can match its intensity and structure. The blackberry and blackcurrant flavours complement grilled red meats, lamb with rosemary, or aged beef steaks, while the dark chocolate notes make it surprisingly good with game meats like venison. The wine's robust tannins also cut through fatty dishes beautifully, making it perfect for slow-cooked braises or barbecued ribs.

The 2018 Bin 389 has earned exceptional ratings (96-98 points) from multiple respected critics because it represents the pinnacle of Australian blending expertise. The marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon's structure with Shiraz's richness creates a wine that showcases both varietals' strengths while minimising their weaknesses. Critics particularly praise its balance between power and elegance, the integration of oak, and its representation of premium South Australian terroir at a relatively accessible price point for such quality.

The Cabernet Shiraz blend is quintessentially Australian, pioneered by producers like Penfolds to create wines that combine Cabernet's structure and cassis flavours with Shiraz's spice and richness. This style allows winemakers to craft more complex wines than either varietal could achieve alone, with Cabernet providing the backbone and aging potential while Shiraz adds mid-palate richness and approachability. Bin 389 exemplifies this blend at its finest, demonstrating why this combination has become Australia's signature red wine style.