Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

There is one important and traditional – some might suggest, essential – voice missing in the 2023 Bin 707 and that is Coonawarra. It was a challenging vintage across South Australia, but in Coonawarra disease pressures were high and fruit quality was considered not up to par. What we see here is the contribution of McLaren Vale, Padthaway and the Barossa Valley. The usual 18 months in 100% new American hogsheads applies.  Deep, impenetrable crimson hues. Macerated dark plum, blackberry aromas with layers of baking spices and crushed herbs, dark chocolate, earth, leather and boot polish. A celebration of Penfolds  new oak mastery, it is also a celebration of Cabernet power, albeit minus some of the classic elemental qualities of Coonawarra.  Trademark fruit concentration is there elevated by attractive peppermint, sage and spice providing the aromatic lift and nicely balanced by light charcuterie savoury notes.