Launched in 1962, PENFOLDS Bin 128 is a regional wine that reflects the unique climate and growing conditions of South Australia's Coonawarra district and the relatively elegant style of cool-climate Shiraz. From the 1980 vintage, French oak replaced American, highlighting the pepper, spice and floral characteristics that define this style. Since the mid-1980s, greater attention has been paid to fruit ripeness, resulting in a wine that is fuller in style and structure.

A glistening red-purple.

The nose is youthful and exuberant with wafts of black pepper, black olive and liquorice There are background savoury charcuterie notes, and a modicum of cedary oak is just detectable.

Youthful and lively, the wine shows dark fruits and menthol flavours with an excellent, rich mid palate. Tingling (natural) acidity coupled with stylish oak and prominent tannins offers grip, tightness and definition. While this wine needs time, it is certainly appealing and of interest in youth. Monitor the evolution.