47% Grenache, 43% Shiraz, with a drop of Mataro, it comes as little surprise to know that the 138 draws inspiration from the wines of Southern Rhône. Plush and vibrant, with wild strawberries and blackcurrants coming to the fore. There is a delightful hint of spice and black olive too, while the palate is creamy and loaded with flavour. Elevated to ‘Bin’ status in 1998, the latest release is an aromatic and approachable blend.

Bin 138 draws its inspiration from the wines of Southern Rhône, where shiraz, grenache and mataro (mourvèdre) are blended in varying proportions to create full-bodied wines possessing rich and heady perfume.

The three varieties that make up Bin 138, shiraz, grenache and mataro, have formed the backbone of the Barossa's vineyard heritage since the late 19th century. Suited to the warm Mediterranean climates of the regions surrounding Adelaide, they were regularly used in both table wine and fortified wine production, and appeared in both Mary Penfold’s commercial wines as well as Dr Christopher Penfold’s tonics.

The first vintage release of Bin 138 Shiraz Grenache Mataro was the 1992, labelled ‘Old Vine Barossa Valley’ – it was then elevated to Bin status with the 1998 vintage.

The wine combines the inky coloured, chocolaty smooth texture of shiraz, the heady perfume, juicy texture and abundant fruit of grenache and the spicy top notes of mataro. Bin 138 Shiraz Grenache Mataro is particularly versatile because it can be enjoyed immediately upon release or as a medium-term cellared wine.

Each year fruit for Bin 138 is sourced from Barossa Valley vines and then matured in seasoned and a small proportion of new oak hogsheads to allow the different varietals of shiraz, grenache and mataro to shine through.