Penfolds Bin 149 Wine Of The World Cabernet 2018 Rated 97JS

James Suckling Review
Rated 97
Lots of blackberry, currant, light chocolate and hazelnut. This is rather dense and plush, but shows impressive layers of tannins that have a rough-velvet texture. Juicy and intense fruit. The grapes come from the AVAs of Rutherford, Calistoga, Oakville and then spread across Napa. 14.9% comes from South Australia. A global wine. In the end, it's nicely toned and curated. Needs three or four years to come together. Try after 2025.

Wine Tasting Notes
Penfolds Bin 149 derives its name from the percentage of South Australian Cabernet Sauvignon that's woven into the blend. Its unique worldly disposition sets it apart from other California wines, and is a testament to the power of the legendary Penfolds House Style. A wine both distinctive and of distinction, Bin 149 showcases a multidimensional palate of strong Napa Valley tannins and intense dark fruit, with an Australian twist.

• NOSE - Aromas are focused, with sweet iced tea, savory caperberries, French polish, and heady barrel ferment characters of mocha and kirsch tapering to a precise point. Further notes include grated ginger, cola, green olive, caraway seeds, and a Bordelaise sauce richness.
• PALATE - Classically Penfolds in character, yet altogether different in structure, the palate features fine, close-knit tannins and a menthol lift with flavors of cedar, sandalwood, and roasted meats. Bright acidity provides succulence and a sustained finish.
• GRAPE VARIETY - Cabernet Sauvignon
• SOURCING - 85.1% Rutherford, Calistoga + Oakville AVAs, Napa Valley, CA 14.9% South Australia, Australia
• ALCOHOL - 14.7%