2008 Bin 620 Coonawarra Cabernet Shiraz

A proud Australian blend, Cabernet & Shiraz, reunited across these three Penfolds Coonawarra vineyards for the first time in over four decades.

Magill open fermenters, Nuriootpa static fermenters; basket & membrane presses; barrel fermentation; new French & American oak. Time proven.

This is not a simple wine. Nor is it a blockbuster. Classic Penfolds Coonawarra.

Peter Gago, Penfolds chief winemaker

98+/100

Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2008 Bin 620 Coonawarra Cabernet Shiraz (a blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz) is a little restrained on the nose, presenting earthy, black truffle, moss covered bark and loam aromas over gentle notes of cassis, crushed blackberries, chocolate mint and pencil shavings, plus a fragrant whiff of cloves.

Medium to full bodied, very ripe and rich in the mouth, the complex, layered fruit is densely packed and well supported by firm, finely grained tannins and very crisp acid.

The finish is very long with a subtle hint of mint interspersed with warm berries, vanilla and baking spices.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, www.erobertparker.com, February 2012

98/100

James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com, August 2012