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Bin 2 was first released in 1960, yet was temporarily discontinued in Australia in the 1970s at the height of the white wine boom. The original Bin 2 was an ‘Australian Burgundy’ style (despite its Rhône varieties), typically a soft, medium-bodied wine based on Shiraz. Often used in fortified wine production, this grape is widely planted in the Barossa Valley. It is valued by winemakers for its blending attributes, adding complexity and palate grip. Interest in Bin 2 has grown as the popularity of traditional Rhône varieties and blends continues to flourish.
An expressive aromatic profile reveals an interplay of blue and black fruits. First noted, blackberry, mulberry and satsuma plum, interwoven with a complex spice spectrum of star anise, toasted fennel seed and clove. A subtle savoury lift emerges, suggestive of charcuterie, dried herbs and olive tapenade, while underlying notes of mocha, dark chocolate and faint earthiness provide depth.
Medium to full-bodied, opening with a generous, sweet-fruited entry of plush blackberry and plum. Mataro asserts itself through a savoury counterpoint, adding complexity and structure. Tannins are textural, firm yet rounded, framing the wine without overt grip, while a fresh acid line brings energy and definition. The finish is persistent and composed, carrying dark fruits, spice and a gentle ferrous, savoury edge.
Download Tasting Notes (PDF 1.08 MB)
The 2024 growing season across South Australia was defined by steady, measured progression and regional nuance. Winter rainfall restored soil moisture profiles across the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, supporting balanced early vine growth. A mild spring followed, with minimal frost pressure and favourable flowering conditions ensuring even fruit set. Summer delivered a sequence of warm, dry days tempered by cool nights, particularly beneficial in preserving aromatics and natural acidity. Barossa fruit contributed depth and structure, while McLaren Vale parcels offered richness and generous mid-palate weight. Cooler influences from Wrattonbully and Padthaway played a strategic role, lending lift, brightness and fine tannin line. Harvest proceeded in an orderly manner, free from extreme heat spikes, allowing for precise picking decisions across all regions. Overall, 2024 can be characterised as a composed and consistent vintage, yielding fruit of clarity, balance and varietal definition—well suited to the Bin 2 style.
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 180 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.