Penfolds, established in 1844, remains one of Australia’s most celebrated and historic wine producers. The Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz—first released in 1959—takes its name from the famed Kalimna vineyard in the Barossa Valley, purchased by Penfolds in 1945. Today, it represents the estate’s benchmark expression of warm-climate Australian Shiraz, showcasing ripe fruit, regional diversity, and Penfolds’ hallmark structure.
Vineyard
While originally sourced exclusively from the Barossa’s Kalimna vineyard, Bin 28 now brings together Shiraz parcels from several premium warm-climate regions, including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Padthaway, and Wrattonbully. Each site contributes its own character—rich Barossa fruit depth, McLaren Vale plushness, and Padthaway’s structural definition. The wine was matured for 12 months in seasoned American oak hogsheads, allowing fruit purity to take centre stage.
Vintage
The 2020 vintage was defined by a dry growing season and lower yields across much of South Australia. However, the concentrated fruit that remained delivered Shiraz of remarkable depth and intensity. Despite the challenging conditions, Penfolds crafted a vintage of impressive balance—vibrant, layered, and beautifully expressive of its warm-climate origins.
Tasting Notes
Deep crimson in colour with purple hues. The bouquet reveals lifted aromas of black cherry, plum, mocha, and spice, with subtle notes of cedar and vanilla. The palate is generous and full-bodied, showcasing ripe blackberry and dark chocolate framed by supple tannins and well-judged oak. There’s classic Penfolds polish throughout—seamless texture, savoury complexity, and a long, lingering finish. Drinking beautifully now yet destined to evolve gracefully over the next two decades.
Critics’ Acclaim
-
94 points – James Suckling
-
93 points – Wine Advocate
-
93 points – Huon Hooke, The Real Review
Praised for its concentration, balance, and expressive fruit purity—a quintessential modern Bin 28 release.
Technical Information
-
Region: Multi-regional blend (Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Padthaway, Wrattonbully)
-
Variety: 100% Shiraz
-
Alcohol: 14.5%
-
Maturation: 12 months in seasoned American oak hogsheads
-
Closure: Screwcap
-
Drinking Window: 2023–2040+
A Collectible Gem
The 2020 Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz is a classic example of Penfolds craftsmanship—rich, structured, and impeccably balanced. Showcasing warm-climate Shiraz at its finest, it delivers both immediate drinking pleasure and long-term cellaring potential.
