With thick skins, royal purple in colour, and elegant flavours derived from ideal grape-growing conditions, cabernet sauvignon provides the structure and palate length. Shiraz grapes, akin to small black pearls, provide the intensity, opulence and flesh. First made in 1960, Bin 389 has a reputation for consistency and longevity and has earned its well-deserved moniker, ‘baby Grange’, from time spent maturing in oak hogsheads used the previous vintage for Grange. This much-loved, beautifully consistent style shows all the hallmarks and benefits of cross-varietal blending and for many wine drinkers, it is their preferred Penfolds wine. Bin 389 is an Australian Grand Vin; a selection and interpretation of the best parcels from the best vineyard sites, by a winemaking team steeped in the ethos and tradition of a great Australian wine style.

Rating

Wine Spectator 91 points (May 16 2012) Expressive and deftly balanced, playing its bright, ripe currant and blackberry fruit against hints of basil and espresso on the appealingly transparent frame. Drink now through 2021.—H.S.

Food pairing

Rare roasted rack of lamb with garlic, rosemary and sea salt Argentinean style beef Ideal with hearty meat dishes