2022 Penfolds Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia

From a vintage that Peter Gago ranks even marginally above the very impressive 2021 in Coonawarra, this is a Bin 407 that delivers a core of compact, textbook blackcurrant, cassis and blackberry fruit, set to a framework of strong, fine-grained tannins, limestone mineral tannins and the bright acidity of cool nights. French and American oak deepen tannin presence and contribute high cocoa dark chocolate character. An enduring Bin 407 of great character, endurance and grandeur.

96 points tysonstelzer.com

Very deep, dense purple colour; intense sweet floral blackcurrant aroma, cassis, blueberry and violets. The wine is intense and full-bodied, robustly structured and ripe, with masses of tannins and concentrated flavour and texture. Quite powerful and long, a very serious Bin 407. (Coonawarra, Padthaway, Wrattonbully, McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley. Aged in French oak—25% new—and American—11% new) 03 JUL 2024 Drink 2027–2044

95 points HH therealreview.com

The 2022 Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon hails from a range of regions in South Australia (Coonawarra, Padthaway, Wrattonbully, McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley) and matured in both French and American oak. This wine appears to have become more elegant over the years, and right now, the fruit is evident within the folds of sweet oak. The wine is detailed, fresh and herbal yet populated with lashings of sweet fruit. There is a nice see-saw of experience here. There is balance in a loud mix. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

94 points EL robertparker.com

A solid release for Penfolds multi-regional cabernet sauvignon and a testament to their much-acclaimed blending skills. Pure and juicy blackberry and blackcurrant fruits are joined by hints of cedar, coal dust, dark spice, dried tobacco, graphite, violets, crème de cassis and impressively-judged oak. Sleek and focused with an elegant travel across the palate, fine-grained tannin support and a lingering, harmonious finish.

93 points DB winecompanion.com.au

A juicy and round-textured red with currant and berry aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crunchy finish. Lightly bitter lemons and walnuts at the end. Drink now. Screw cap.

92 points jamessuckling.com

Dark plum, opaque. A blend of raw (unroasted) coffee beans, pencil shavings and graphite, establish a nose that speaks to varietal character. A wild herb garden unfolds, bringing marjoram, thyme flowers, rocket, sage and rosemary to the forefront while notes of crème de cassis liqueur reinforce varietal credentials. A waft of violets lends a delicate touch to the nose. Richness ensues with the aroma of Portuguese tart custard cream — its sweet spice complexity further embellished by cinnamon, vanilla and pimento. Overall, sweet notes dominate but are beautifully anchored by earthier elements.

The core is undeniably sweet/rich yet sophisticated. The wine opens expansively — firm in structure yet big and glossy on approach. Tannins are remarkably balanced; they assert their presence without detracting from the lush blackcurrant fruit at its heart. Freshness is maintained through lively acidity, contributing greatly to the wine’s depth and length. Well-integrated oak underpins these flavours without overwhelming them — focused and enhancing rather than competing with the fruit profile. A hint of Sarsaparilla adds an unexpected twist that lingers into the finish, Drin 2026-2040