Accolades & Reviews

• Jancis Robinson – 18/20 Points
Tasted Oct 2024

Drinking Window: 2015–2040

About the Wine

Created by the legendary Max Schubert, founder of Penfolds Grange, Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz has long been known as the “Poor Man’s Grange” or “Baby Grange.” Components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that previously held Grange.

First released in 1960, Bin 389 helped cement Penfolds’ reputation for crafting powerful, cellar-worthy reds. It combines the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz, showcasing the hallmark Penfolds balance between fruit and oak.

“Tight, focused, compact. Needs time to unfold — tightly wrapped on release.”
— Peter Gago, Penfolds Chief Winemaker

Vintage Notes (2007)

The 2007 vintage presented challenges, with low winter temperatures and frost risks followed by unusually high summer heat. Careful vineyard management ensured selective early harvesting to preserve flavour, structure, and balance.

Vineyard Regions: South Australia – key parcels from Coonawarra, McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, Padthaway, and Barossa.

Grape Variety: 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Shiraz

Maturation: 12 months in American oak hogsheads (39% new, remainder seasoned)

Tasting Notes (Winemaker: Peter Gago)

Colour: Deep, dark red with an impenetrable core.
Nose: Dark fruits supported by oak spice, stewed Christmas pudding (dates, sultana, fig), and subtle notes of anise, licorice, talc, and savoury cold meats.
Palate: Youthful dark fruit layers over rhubarb and quince paste. Oak integration adds structure and depth, with nuances of coffee grounds and barrel ferment complexity. Ripe tannins and a strong mid-palate deliver classic Bin 389 power.

Specifications

Alcohol: 14.5%

Acidity: 6.6 g/L

pH: 3.49

Peak Drinking: 2011–2022 (Producer original guidance)

Drinking Window (Jancis Robinson): 2015–2040

Closure: Cork

Food Pairing

Rare roasted rack of lamb with garlic, rosemary, and sea salt.