Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Bin 707 perfectly reflects the Penfolds ‘House Style’ through a cabernet sauvignon lens: intensely-flavoured fruit; completion of fermentation and maturation in new oak; expressing a Penfolds understanding of multivineyard, multi-region fruit sourcing. Bin 707’s first vintage was in 1964. The wine was not made from 1970 to 1975 (when fruit was directed to other Penfolds wines) nor in 1981, 1995, 2000, 2003 or 2011 (when fruit of the required style and quality was not available). Full-bodied and with proven cellaring potential, Bin 707 retains a secure place among the ranks of Australia’s finest cabernets.

First impression: An automatic ascent of cabernet sauvignon varietal fruits laced with classic Bin 707 barrel-ferment and formic markers.

Fruit and derivatives: Scents of boysenberry ice-cream, black forest cake, dark black cherry/kirsch… and zabaglione, panacotta notes hovering above.

Oak: Contribution noted via the release of sandalwood, frankincense and whetstone sharpening block graphite aromatics.

Lasting impression: Vivid. Elemental. Beckoning.

A solid cabernet core immediately apparent, with fruits to the fore (juicy blackcurrant) and a wrinkled, black olive concentration. Texturally, the fine weave of a tapestry – a thread of rhubarb/cranberry natural acidity, wrapped around a mesh of slinky tannins. (A perception of skin and seed tannins only, despite 100% new oak. No doubt the wine’s gloss and sleekness render this misconception). Complexingly, a dark chocolate graininess, cedar and a savoury disposition contribute to the layering, length and longevity potential of this wine. Complete.

Peak Drinking