Penfolds Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz 2005
Syrah/Shiraz
from Coonawarra, Australia
winemaker's notes:
Launched in 1962, Penfolds Bin 128 is a regional wine
that reflects the unique climate and growing conditions
of South Australia's Coonawarra district and the relatively
elegant style of cool-climate Shiraz. From the 1980 vintage,
French oak replaced American, highlighting the pepper,
spice and floral characteristics that define this style. Since the
mid-1980s, greater attention has been paid to fruit ripeness,
resulting in a wine that is fuller in style and structure.
Color: A glistening red-purple
Nose: The nose is youthful and exuberant with wafts
of black pepper, black olive and licorice.
There are background savory charcuterie
notes, and a modicum of cedary oak is just
detectable.
Palate: Youthful and lively, the wine shows dark fruits
and menthol flavors with an excellent, rich
mid-palate. Tingling (natural) acidity coupled
with stylish oak and prominent tannins offers
grip, tightness and definition. While this wine
needs time, it is certainly appealing and of
interest in youth. Monitor the evolution.
Food matches: Beef, duck & game, lamb
