Penfolds BIN 389 Cabernet Shiraz Deep Sea Edition

The BIN 389 is the most famous cuvée label from Penfolds – not an insider tip, but a benchmark. The Deep Sea Edition 2021 comes in a matte blue bottle that reminds one of the depth of the ocean, but follows the same standard in content as the classic BIN 389.

Penfolds has been working in South Australia since 1844 – first in Magill near Adelaide, today with grapes from the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Coonawarra. The assemblage of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Shiraz follows the principle of "multi-district blending": winemaker Peter Gago and his team select the best batches from several growing regions every year to achieve a consistent style. Twelve months of maturation in American oak – the same barrel type as for the Grange – gives the wine its nickname "Baby Grange".

In the glass, deep purple. On the nose, cassis, black plum, and a clear tone of coconut and vanilla from the American oak, plus eucalyptus and dark chocolate. On the palate, medium to full body, velvety tannins, a powerful but integrated acidity. The finish brings herbal spice and persistent fruit.

• Drinking temperature: 17–18 °C
• Food: Lamb shank with rosemary, grilled beef steak, mature cheddar