Wine Advisor
Penfolds, Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Erin Larkin
This 2020 Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon is big and structural—the Cabernet character (the "Cabernosity" of the wine) sits behind a parapet of oak, and the tannins are finely knit and tightly clenched around the fruit. Unpicking the structure from the finish reveals smoked cassis, resinous char, star anise and sticky lamb fat. It's a big-shouldered, muscly wine. This is fierce and concentrated and will live an eon, but in my opinion, it lacks the finesse and poise that I want to see in Cabernet Sauvignon. The oak regimen—15 months in French (24% new) and American (12% new) hogsheads—and regional makeup has something to do with that: McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, Padthaway and Wrattonbully. There are a lot of good Cabernet regions in there, but in combination, they lose their identities—although, that has long been the appeal with this wine. Choose your own adventure.
About the Producer
Since 1844, Penfolds has played a pivotal role in the evolution of wine making with a history and heritage that profoundly reflects Australia’s journey from colonial settlement to the modern era. Penfolds collection of benchmark wines were established in a spirit of innovation and the constant and endless pursuit of quality, evidenced from the secret bottling of Grange in 1951 and the unbroken line of vintages of what is now arguably Australia’s most iconic red wine. Today, the collection continues to display the distinctive and consistently recognisable Penfolds ‘House Style’; the ultimate expression of Penfolds time-honoured tradition of sourcing the best fruit from the best regions. Historic blends, significant milestones and heritage vineyards have been honoured by a lineage of custodians whose courage and imagination, precision and humility have ensured Penfolds remains true to its original values while remaining relevant for current and future generations. The stories and philosophies behind each label bring a timeless quality, making Penfolds wines special and compelling for collectors and drinkers the world over.
