2012 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 750ml

COLOUR Vibrant blood-red with a staining dark core. NOSE Complete. Initially difficult to separate aromatic components. Must be Bin 389! With aeration, an evocative barrel-ferment character separates above, prune/fig/dates/quince beneath, bridged by soy/hoisin sauce notes. A pronounced freshness is immediately apparent. Scents of char-grilled, Italian vegetables (zucchini, eggplant) fleetingly distract. Stylish, and regardless of whether either ee or oo are used, both breeding and brooding are apt descriptors! PALATE Full-bodied. A vinous web of cola, newly-tanned leather and dark-berried fruits. Minimal structural weave – little flavour space to fill, no gaps. Cabernet and Shiraz dovetail effortlessly. Vibrant, with a tangy freshness augmented by sculptured tannins, lively acidity, and respectful oak. Length, weight and texture sit well. Embellishment not required. Tasting is.