Penfolds Bin 169 Coonawarra Cabernet 2016 (Australia) Rated 98JS

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James Suckling Review
Rated 98
The regional stamp is embedded deeply here. Redcurrant, blackcurrant, mint and leafy aromas with a core of very fine, lithe tannins that really chisel the palate into shape. The florals are here in red and violet shades, together with purple-olive tapenade, sweeter red berries and an almost raspberry-like core. The palate is bright, long and powerful with an elegant core of fine, assertive tannins in play. The warm wave of spicy oak into the finish is delivered with class and finesse. Long and regal. This is superb cabernet sauvignon and the shining star of this year's collection. Drink from 2022 and for two decades at least.

Wine Tasting Notes
Vibrant dark red in color. Instantly, varietal Coonawarra, replete with terra rossa dust. Agreed, aromatically ticks all the regional/varietal boxes: primarily blackcurrant, creme de cassis, black olive, aniseed, and a hint of violet. Yet there's much more to intrigue - cinnamon bark/stick, chocolate truffle dust/copha powder, dried porcini mushroom. Oak well hidden, hesitantly arising sometime later sitting in glass. Surely not ashamed at being completely new? And French. Unlikely. Defined - structurally, an assertive firm line striding across a buffed core. And yet, still lively and vivacious - an intriguing palate that unfolds, or more aptly volatilises/sublimes. flavors suggestive of Italian meats (shaved ham, prosciutto and venison), overlaying a cedar/spice base. Lively acidity and phenolics - cranberry and pomegranate the offending partners. Cranberry the major suspect, consorted by pomegranate. Rhubarb not reported. Sits confidently on palate. Balanced, complete.