2012 Penfolds, Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia

Made from Coonawarra, Padthaway, Barossa, Wrattonbully and Adelaide Hills fruit and aged 14 months is 100% new American oak hogsheads, the deep, vibrant purple colored 2012 Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon opens to lovely crème de cassis notes with some kirsch accents plus violets, cedar and menthol nuances. At the moment the oak stands out on the palate so it needs more time to integrate, but otherwise it is quite minty, has balanced acid though is very punchy and it is bursting with fruit through the very long, firm finish.

100% Cabernet Sauvignon. 14 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads, coopered by AP John. Mainly from Coonawarra and Padthaway, but also Barossa Valley, Wrattonbully and Adelaide Hills. No time on skins after ferment, so tannins softer than many. TA 7 g/l, pH 3.57. Blackish. Lots of American oak on the nose! Rich and syrupy and round. Very young and thick. Dense and dry on the end. (JR)