2022 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz

The 2022 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz is a dense beast of a wine, and the many lovers of the style will will experience paroxysms of pleasure, in that this delivers the muscle, density and concentration of yore. It is powerfully tannic, abundantly fruitful and long through the finish. What more can be said of a wine like this other than that it is a firm style, made consistently year in and year out. Aniseed, nutmeg, cinnamon and malt populate the register of spices from the charry oak. This is a big, big wine. It is composed of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Shiraz, sourced from a blend of McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Padthaway and Wrattonbully. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

This is a delightful 2022 Bin 389, a blend of 51% Cabernet and 49% Shiraz fruit from McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Padthaway and Wrattonbully. The 2022 is a benchmark vintage - effortless with effusive aromas of cassis, licorice and blackberry topped by a nice touch of graphite. Classically styled, with a firm base of tannins and vibrant flavors that nicely balance the finish that just goes on and on. A little shy right now, but everything is in its perfect place for a long and distinguished future.

51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Shiraz from McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Padthaway and Wrattonbully. Referred to as Baby Grange because it’s aged in some of the same barrels, seeing 12 months in American oak hogsheads (36% new). First made by Max Schubert in 1960. Scented, sweet, gloriously integrated. Lively treacle. Juicy and a dry end. Rich and married. Very complex. Biscuity. Very gentle initially but with a firm, dry finish. Long. Fresher than I remember! (JR)