Penfolds Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz 1997

Penfolds Bin 128 is one of the most distinctive reds in the Penfolds stable. Firstly, as a ''Coonawarra Shiraz'', it is one of the few Penfolds reds that isn't a multi regional blend. It is also one of only two Penfolds reds, Clare Estate being the other, to be matured solely in French oak - all other Penfolds reds make use of some American oak in the maturation process. This has not always been the case. Up till the late 70's Bin 128 was also matured in American oak. However, over time, the rich, sweet vanillin characters of the American barrels tended to mask the regional delicacy typical of Coonawarra Shiraz and so, as of 1980, only French oak has been used. French oak generally lends a wine understated, aromatic characters and is therefore a better choice with more subtly flavoured wines. Coonawarra typically produces zesty, spicy and supple Shiraz fruit that exhibits a richness of flavour and a mouth-filling roundness on the palate. Bin 128 is true to this style.