On Sale: $44.94 (was: $49.94)*
Penfolds has been around for well over 150 years, a staggering time for a 'new world' winery, and since they first released Penfolds Grange in the 1950s, they have been one of the most recognizable Aussie producers in the world. Their latest project is sure to raise some eyebrows; a classic Cab-Shiraz blend, with Cabernet from Napa and Sonoma, and Syrah (ok, Shiraz) from Paso Robles. Penfolds has brought the epic viticultural history of Australia with them to California, planting vineyards there over 20 years ago with their own cuttings from the legendary Kalimna (Adelaide) and Magill (Barossa) vineyards. This 2018 debut vintage of Bin 600 is a bold statement, at an altogether casual price, and a sign that Penfolds is staying on the cutting edge even after a century and a half!
Penfolds’ world-class team has turned out a darn tasty Cabernet blend in 2018 that keeps one foot rooted in Australia, and at under 45 bucks, is more than ready to throw down with its new peers in California red blends. With a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Shiraz, Bin 600 is could legally be labeled as just ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, however the classic Cab-Shiraz blend is such a signature of Australian reds, and is what gives this California grown wine such an Aussie personality. Penfolds’ new range of wines seeks to find that common ground between California and Australia, with some cuvees going fully international. Despite its origins, this shows “real balance and elegance” (Suckling) and is likely going to surprise more than a few skeptics!
94 points, Halliday Wine Companion: "78% cabernet (Napa Valley and Sonoma) with 22% shiraz (Paso Robles). Matured 16 months in 60/40% 1yo/new American oak barrels. Peter Gago describes his entry-level ('if you'd call it that!') California blend as strongly Australian influenced, 'because there couldn't be anything more Australian than cabernet shiraz' He lets cabernet take the lead here, 'because it's so much better than shiraz in California.' The ultimate multicultural marriage, a far-flung take on the great Australian blend, exuberantly celebrating the luscious, ripe and generous mood of California within the signature scaffolding of Penfolds. A core of cabernet is proclaimed in impressive blackcurrant and cassis, with a fleshy mid palate built by the spicy blackberry fruit of shiraz. In time, it morphs triumphantly into intense fresh licorice straps. Fine American oak and fruit tannins unite to form a taut frame that declares a strong finish of great length and grand potential." - Tyson Stelzer
93 points, James Suckling: "A very fine and polished red with cherry, berry, chocolate and cedar aromas and flavors. Some spice and meat with hints of tea leaf. Some ash, too. Medium body and extremely refined texture, showing real balance and elegance. The tannins spread across the palate in a beautiful way."
*Offer publication date September 6, 2021. Pricing and availability subject to change.