The 2018 Penfolds Bin 704 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a captivating red wine that showcases the renowned craftsmanship of Penfolds, a prestigious Australian producer venturing into Napa Valley for the first time. This wine is a testament to their ability to create exceptional wines across different regions.
In the glass, the wine exhibits a bright and vibrant appearance, enticing the senses with its deep, dark hues. The aromas are intense, with black plum enveloped in a tight-fisted blackberry glove. As the wine opens up, additional layers are revealed, including sumptuous fruit, firm yet polite tannins, and a chew of tobacco. The body is fashionably lean, yet the flavors relax into a plush embrace, creating a harmonious balance.
On the nose, a lively floral and herbal bouquet emerges, showcasing notes of violet, redcurrant, bay leaf, and tobacco. The palate is filled with supple yet high-toned red fruits, complemented by firm but pleasant acidity. The finish is succulent and rigid, where a slick texture meets an angular, focused tannin structure. This wine admirably captures Napa Cabernet's herbaceous side in a svelte and accessible package.
The 2018 Penfolds Bin 704 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in 40% new French oak for 16 months, adding complexity and refinement to the wine. It received high praise from esteemed critics, with scores ranging from 91 to 96.
Decanter awarded this wine an impressive score of 95, describing it as bright, vibrant, and revealing sumptuous fruit. James Suckling also bestowed a score of 95, praising its beautiful aromatics, tension, energy, and refinement. Wine Enthusiast awarded it an outstanding score of 96, highlighting its tightly structured yet supple nature and bursting flavors. James Halliday awarded it 95 points, noting its rich, ripe, and succulent core of blackberry and blackcurrant fruit. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 91 points, acknowledging its unique approach in accessing top vineyards in Napa.
Overall, the 2018 Penfolds Bin 704 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of exceptional quality, combining the best of Napa Valley terroir with Penfolds' expertise. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now, but also promises great rewards with further aging.
