Penfolds Bin 149 Cabernet Sauvignon seeks out Northern Hemisphere excellence via meticulous vineyard and block selection, reinforced by flagship-worthy South Australian Cabernet Sauvignon. The result is distinctive, and of distinction. Bin 149’s name is derived from the percentage of South Australian Cabernet Sauvignon that was synergistically woven into the inaugural 2018 release. Napa Valley regional sourcing seeks to showcase strong tannic foundations, dark fruit intensity but with the added dimension of a unique “worldly” disposition. Matured in French and American oak, this release highlights Penfolds commitment to quality and winemaking approach.
Varietal | Cabernet Sauvignon |
---|---|
Vintage | 2021 |
Country | United States |
Region | Multi Region |
Volume | 750 mL |
Closure | Cork |
Alc/Vol | 14.5% |
Peak Drinking | Now - 2049 |
96 Points | Colin Hay, The Drinks Business |
96 Points | Ray Jordan |
95 Points | Andrew Caillard MW |
"This is a combination of 91% cabernet sauvignon and 9% cabernet franc from the Napa Valley and South Australia. It’s a wine of generosity and volume with abundant ripe fruit on the nose immediately assailing. An engaging weave of black fruits open with lifted pepper and savoury dried herbs emerging. The palate shows plenty of black fruits, dark chocolate and balancing drying seashell-like characters. A little olive tapenade and bay leaf on the finish. It’s 72% new French and 16% new American dominant – 96 points"
"Lovely complexity, density and drive. Should last a few decades at least. 95 Points "
Immediately captivating and expressive; an opulent and stylistically perfumed bouquet that exudes sophistication. A complex tapestry of black fruits unravels, revealing layers of blackberry conserve interwoven with inkwell minerality. Undertones of ferrous metal lend an earthy gravitas, while charred notes of roasted peppers and bresaola add depth and savoriness. The medley is accentuated by the subtle brininess of kalamata olives and nuanced by the freshness of green coffee beans. Hints of mulberry leaves complete this aromatic profile, showcasing its multifaceted nature.
Upon tasting, the palate unfolds with a burst of blueberry freshness, balanced by an undercurrent of Sarsaparilla and baking spice. A procession of cherries dipped in dark chocolate parades across the palate, escorted by the rich intensity of mulberries/blackberry coulis. The savory flavours emerge through radicchio lettuce, adding an intriguing bitter edge that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness above. Layers continue to unfold as danish pastries and panforte integrate with sundried tomato pastry.
The 2021 Napa Valley vintage stands out for its exceptional quality, with some of the finest fruit harvested in years. The season was ushered in with beneficial early winter rains that established a foundation for grapevine growth. These rains were followed by a notably dry period, creating optimal conditions for vine development. Budbreak commenced in early April, leading to an ideal flowering and bloom in May. As summer unfolded, the vines benefited from a pattern of early and consistent ripening, with veraison marking the onset of grape maturation in early July. Although yields were on the lower side—partly a consequence of drought conditions—the resulting fruit was concentrated with intense flavours and smaller berries. The season's moderate temperatures played a pivotal role, fostering an extended and uniform ripening process. Our winemakers exercised patience, carefully timing the harvest to ensure peak maturity. This deliberate approach has culminated in wines that are not only vibrant and richly hued but also boast remarkable aromatic depth and robust structure. The vintage promises an extraordinary sensory experience, characterised by wines that are as opulent as they are fruit-forward.
Key to the success of Penfolds has been a lineage of visionary winemakers. There have only ever been four Chief Winemakers at the helm of Penfolds – Max Schubert, Don Ditter, John Duval and Peter Gago, each a custodian of a rich winemaking tradition that goes back for more than 170 years.
Our current Penfolds winemaking team has more than 100 years between them as Penfolds winemakers. They are constantly refining and improving their work, whilst honouring the winemaking techniques of their predecessors.