The nose has ample self-standing fruits already beginning to yield to other vinous intent.. Cola, grated chocolate and cappuccino dust bind with juniper and spices. A flash of brown sugar and liquorice –not quite in the Marsala spectrum –instead, brandy impressions replaced by blood orange-rind. Oak somewhat partially hidden, yet faint scents of cedar and graphite lobby for further bottle maturation.Unabashed (Baby Grange) complexities.

Instantly fresh and fleshy palate. Some overt single-varietal cabernet and shiraz fruits still sit separate ...time will unite.. Expected liquorice, stewed plum and blackcurrant, with dark chocolate and mocha in the background. Savoury and salivating –mouth-watering, succulent acidity. This acidity interplays with integrated tannins –coating the mouth and adding length.. Yes, impressive length, with concentration, and a mandatory Bin 389 'sweet' core; oak completely absorbed. Polished and refined.

Bin 389 was often referred to as ‘Baby Grange’, in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz. Exemplifying the judicious balance of fruit and oak, Bin 389 highlights the generous mid-palate Penfolds is known for.

Bin 389 is one of Australia’s great cellaring red wines. First produced in 1960, its history is connected with the development of Grange and Max Schubert’s ambition of creating a ‘dynasty of wines which all bear an unmistakable resemblance to each other’. Named after its original binning compartment at Magill cellars, Bin 389 is the most popular wine in the Australian secondary wine market because of its heritage, consistency and reputation.

96 Points | Andrew Caillard MW
96 Points | Tyson Stelzer
96 Points | Huon Hooke
96 Points | James Halliday
96 Points | Ken Gargett
95 Points | David Sly - Decanter