Penfolds BIN 389 Cabernet Shiraz - 2013
The Bin 389 is often called "Poor Man Grange" or "Baby Grange" partly because the components of the wine are bred in the same barrels as the previous vintage of Grange. Created in 1960 by the legendary Max Shubert, Bin 389 has helped to forge a strong reputation in Penfolds for red wine enthusiasts. Combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz, the Bin 389 also illustrates a judicious balance of fruit and oak. Climatic conditions 2013: After a dry winter in southern Australia, similar to that of 2006, the vines ran out of water in early spring and became used to dry conditions. Early bud break and windy conditions in many areas during flowering reduced yields. Hot days in October, November and early January have contributed to the early start of the 2013 crop and a short grape harvest. Warm and dry conditions, coupled with below-average yields, yielded fruit with structural tannins, great flavor and high intensity.