Penfolds Bin 389 is often referred to as 'Baby Grange', in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure of cabernet sauvignon with the richness of shiraz. It is named after its original binning compartment at Magill cellars. 

"The palate is intense and full-bodied, with a good degree of elegance but also plenty of trad Penfolds bite and grip. A superbly rich, balanced and rounded wine; a complete item, and an outstanding Bin 389. The finish rolls on and on."   Huon Hooke

The 2012 Bin 389 is a blend of 54% cabernet sauvignon and 46% shiraz from premium vineyards in Wrattonbully, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek and Robe. The wine was matured for 12 months in American oak hogsheads (40% new and 60% 1-y.o.).

"Medium-deep crimson. Fresh primary mulberry and blackcurrant aromas with red liquorice notes. Generously concentrated and supple wine with mulberry, cassis and red liquorice flavours, lacy/chalky textures and persistent yet underlying acidity. Finishes juicy and long with savoury nutty notes. Drinking well, but will improve with time. Peak drinking 2022 to 2040.

Vintage Conditions: Most areas of South Australia, including Wrattonbully and the Barossa Valley, were impacted by lower than average rainfall across the winter period. This resulted in ideal stress through spring flowering. Variable conditions across all regions through October to December, merged to a mild summer with a few short periods of heat. The mild daytime temperatures and cool evenings across most of the ripening period allowed impressive flavour development without inflated baumés. Balanced canopies and fruit load provided even ripening throughout veraison. Warm dry conditions continued throughout harvest allowing fruit to be picked in optimal condition. Smaller berry and bunch sizes were noticeable in most regions.  This, coupled with favourable weather conditions, induced great results for traditional quality markers – colour, tannin profile, fruit concentration and flavour depth."  Penfolds