Penfolds, Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz, South Australia 2021 - 75cl

They call Bin 389 the “Baby Grange”, and it has earned the nickname. Max Schubert created it in 1960, and part of what makes it special is that it is matured in the same American oak hogsheads that previously held Grange — so a little of that legend rubs off on every bottle. This is the blend that built Penfolds' reputation for cellar-worthy reds.

Cabernet Sauvignon brings the backbone and Shiraz fills in the flesh, drawn from vineyards across South Australia. The 2021 vintage was superb, and this is built for the long haul. Expect cassis and dark plum, blackberry, then cedar, cigar box and a wave of mocha and dark chocolate from the oak. The palate is powerful and tightly wound — dense fruit, firm structured tannins, real length — a wine that is impressive now but genuinely made to age.

If you can resist it, this will reward a decade or two in the cellar. If you cannot, decant it hard and enjoy the ride.

How to Serve

Serve at 16–18°C. In its youth it needs air — decant for an hour or two, or lay it down and wait.

Where to Drink It

An occasion wine: Scott's in Mayfair, Wiltons on Jermyn Street, or the classic surroundings of The Wolseley.

Food Pairings

A dry-aged steak is the obvious call, and the right one. Otherwise roast beef, venison, or a board of aged hard cheeses.