Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 2017 750mL

With each vintage release the cool climate Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz provides an interesting counterpoint to the more opulent and richly concentrated warm climate Kalimna Bin 28 Shiraz. Bin 128 comprises fruit sourced from the unique terra rossa soils of Coonawarra, a region that exemplifies the perfume, transparency and seductive nature of cool-climate red table wines. Coonawarra has remained the source of shiraz fruit for Bin 128 since the inaugural release of the 1962 vintage. In order to further enhance the regional qualities of Bin 128, the wine is matured in a mixture of new and seasoned French oak hogsheads; a method that was refined during the 1980's when the transition was made from American to French oak. COLOUR: Garnet with crimson on rim. NOSE: An aromatic veil of black-truffled earthiness meshed with porcini mushroom over a dark chocolate base. Beneath, spiced French oak evident (predominantly cinnamon) – not quite a nuttiness (but if it were to be, most akin to preserved walnut). A transient lift of violet florals quickly superseded by the assertive ascent of a 'just-roasted beef outer-crustiness'! Coonawarra shiraz? But of course. PALATE: A quilt of berried shiraz fruits and lingering tannins provide a structural palate platform. A recollection of corned beef and aspic jelly flavours, with but a touch of menthol/fresh tobacco abetting small-berried fruits. A Coonawarra line of acidity affords both vivacity and length of palate. French oak there to help! Looks like, tastes like. 128. 95 Points Tony Love. 95 Points Angus Hughson.