Barry Weinman: Tasted 25th June 2026

Penfolds Grange, Bin 707 and Bin 169 represent three distinct expressions of Penfolds’ winemaking philosophy: Grange, the internationally acclaimed icon that redefined Australian fine wine, is predominantly Shiraz and the first experimental release was in 1951.

Bin 707 is a powerful and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon that mirrors Grange’s uncompromising approach, and the first vintage was in 1964.

In comparison, Bin 169 is a comparatively recent addition, starting in 2008 (following a special release in 1973) that showcases Coonawarra cabernet.

While differing in varietal composition and regional focus, all three wines share a common commitment to exceptional fruit, meticulous craftsmanship and the ability to evolve over decades in the cellar.

*This was not a blind wine tasting, and it was hosted by Peter Gago. As a result, points should be considered as indicative.

Reviewed

Penfolds – Bin 169 – Cabernet Sauvignon – 2024. OMG. This is quite stunning. So fine and elegant, yet with masses of intrinsic power. A superb wine. The way the (prolific) tannins and acid have been massaged into a supple, elegant package is quite remarkable, allowing the vibrant blueberry fruit to shine. The oak adds weight and depth but does not cloud the fruit in any way. A wonderful wine that will drink beautifully any time over the next 30 years. As the most important brand in the Treasury Wine Estates portfolio, Penfolds has the ability to access some of the best fruit from across the region that might otherwise be destined for another wine. 100% Coonawarra fruit aged in French oak hogsheads for 18 months (79% new). 14.5% alc | 97+pts | $300.00.

Penfolds – Bin 707 – Cabernet Sauvignon – 2024. Classic Bin 707 and a brilliant wine. Here, the fruit depth, power, texture and structure are taken to an even higher level. The aromas and flavours evolve and build as this sits in the glass, transitioning from blueberry, through plum and on to complex savoury notes, all supported by the very fine oak (new French barriques). The tannins are, as expected, significant, yet they never dominate the fruit. But they do serve to keep the fruit a little subdued on the palate. Yes, it is classic Cabernet, but even more so, it is classic Penfolds. Points are irrelevant. As good as this is today, experience tells us that this will be even better with age and is sure to live longer than me.

Penfolds has the ability to use the best fruit from anywhere in the country for Bin 707, but in 2024 the fruit was all from South Australia (Coonawarra, Barossa, Padthaway). 14.5% alc | 98pts* | $800.00.

Penfolds – Grange – Shiraz – 2022. This is just remarkable. Intensity, power, density, depth, this has everything you could possibly hope for in a wine. This really is one of the world’s great wines. The fruit takes on a darker hue, being almost impregnable at this early stage, hinting at its potential, but pinpointing the fruit characters proved impossible, such is the density. Yet this remains silky, supple and utterly delicious. This has ultimate length of flavours and the silky texture in no way impedes the flow. Stunning! Just magnificent! Don’t get me wrong, there are tannins and acid to make this a 50-year cellaring potential, but it is amazing wine already. 100pts? Why not.

The fruit for this wine was sourced from the Barossa (87%) along with a splash of McLaren Vale and Coonawarra. As expected, the wine was matured in new American oak for 18 months and, in 2022 includes 3% cabernet sauvignon. 14.5% alc | 99pts* | $1000.00.