Red wine | Barossa Valley, Australia
The Penfolds Bin 138 is a quintessential expression of the Barossa Valley's rich winemaking heritage. Drawing its inspiration from the traditional blends of the Southern Rhône, this wine masterfully marries the depth and structure of Shiraz with the perfumed, juicy fruit character of Grenache and the earthy, spicy complexity of Mataro (Mourvèdre). The fruit is sourced from well-established, old vines in the Barossa Valley—some of which have been part of the region's landscape for over a century—resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and concentration. Upon pouring, you are greeted by a bouquet of dark berries, mocha, and subtle exotic spices. On the palate, the wine is medium-to-full bodied, offering a harmonious interplay of ripe plum, blackberry, and liquorice, supported by fine, velvety tannins that provide a sophisticated structure. Its lively acidity keeps it fresh and vibrant, leading to a long, savoury finish that makes it an incredibly versatile food partner. Whether you are enjoying it now or cellaring it for a few years to allow further complexity to develop, the Bin 138 is a testament to the Penfolds 'house style'—consistently producing bold, complex, and high-quality wines. It pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes such as roast lamb, beef ragout, ossobuco, or even spice-driven meals like Massaman curry, where its spice notes and structured tannins can truly shine.
GSM blends are lovely! This one's got that Aussie boldness. Dark fruit, spice, and tannins? Yes, please! Roast lamb is calling. 4 stars!