Penfolds Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz 2020

Winery Background and History Penfolds is Australia’s most iconic wine house, established in 1844 in South Australia and famed for blending innovation with tradition. Bin 128 was created to showcase the elegance of cool-climate Shiraz from Coonawarra, contrasting the richer, warmer climate Shiraz styles in the Penfolds portfolio. Over decades Penfolds has become a global benchmark for Australian wine quality and longevity, with Bin 128 demonstrating the house’s skill in expressing regional terroir through meticulous vineyard selection and classic winemaking approach. 

Producer and Winemaker Bin 128 is produced by Penfolds’ winemaking team, guided by the Chief Winemaker and senior winemakers at Magill Estate. Their philosophy emphasizes balance, purity and reflection of regional character, sourcing Shiraz exclusively from Coonawarra’s terra rossa soils and managing oak maturation to enhance structure without overwhelming fruit. Penfolds’ blending expertise stems from a long history of crafting structured, ageworthy wines that appeal to both collectors and enthusiasts globally, with Bin 128 standing out for its cool-climate elegance. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate The fruit for Bin 128 comes exclusively from Coonawarra, a cool-climate region in South Australia famous for deep terra rossa soils over limestone, which promote fine tannins, freshness and crystalline fruit expression. Daytime warmth and cooling breezes at night contribute to balanced ripening, while clay-rich red soils lend subtle complexity and minerality to the Shiraz grapes. This combination yields wines of perfume, clarity and poised structure that reflect the unique terroir of the region. 

Vinification & Aging Methods After harvest, grapes are gently processed and fermented in temperature-controlled vessels to preserve purity and aromatic intensity. Bin 128 2020 was matured for 12 months in French oak hogsheads, with approximately 20 % new oak, enhancing spice and structural depth while maintaining the varietal’s brightness and finesse. Penfolds refined its élevage over decades to favour French oak for this cooler-climate expression, balancing oak influence with fruit clarity. 

Tasting Notes The 2020 Bin 128 displays an intense ruby-red colour with purple hues. The bouquet reveals mulberries, black fruit, white pepper, herbs and spice complemented by subtle oak nuance. On the palate it is medium-to-full-bodied with fine chalky tannins, vibrant acidity and structural focus, showcasing cranberry, blueberry and earthy mineral notes alongside gentle spice. The finish is long, elegant and refreshing, underlined by regional spice and savoury complexity. 

Food and Wine Pairing Pair this elegant Shiraz with herb-roasted lamb or beef, grilled game, slow-roasted pork with rosemary and peppercorn jus, braised short ribs, and mature cheeses like pecorino or aged cheddar. Its vibrant acidity and nuanced spice also complement tomato-based pasta dishes with roasted vegetables or charcuterie with smoky elements. 

Service Methods and Temperatures Serve at 16–18 °C in a large red wine glass to support aromatic complexity and structure. Decanting for 30–60 minutes is recommended to allow the wine to open fully and reveal nuanced spice and fruit layers, especially if consumed in its youthful phase.

Storage and Aging Potential Store in a cool, dark cellar (10–14 °C) with stable humidity. Bin 128 2020 has excellent aging potential, with a recommended drinking window from 2023 through about 2036, during which time it will gain further complexity, earthy notes and integrated tannins. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used 100 % Shiraz. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume) 14.5 % (approx). 

Scores

Decanter Magazine (David Sly): 95

Jeni Port (Winepilot): 95

Tyson Stelzer: 94

Ken Gargett: 95

Falstaff: 93