Penfolds Bin 111A 2016 (750ML)

100 Points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate: "A new addition to the Penfolds lineup, the 2016 Bin 111A Shiraz is a blend of Clare (51%) and Barossa (49%) fruit from vineyards that have previously contributed to Grange. Aged in 100% new French oak, it's a rich, luxuriously textured wine that's packed with ripe fruit and finely textured tannins. Hints of grilled meat and exotic dried spices accent red raspberries and redcurrants in this full-bodied but exceptionally silky and elegant red that meets the high expectations for such a pricey bottling."

95 Points, Decanter: "This brand new Special Bin Shiraz is sourced from fruit which regularly makes it into Grange, from two single-vineyard sites in the Clare (51%) and Barossa (49%) valleys. A new kid on the Penfolds block, it's framed by new French oak, and is deep, dark and brooding, with fine spicy aromatics of savoury pepper, liquorice and vanilla. This is followed by a richly chocolatey and concentrated dark berry character wrapped in a firm structure of tightly wound tannins and a fine blade of acidity. A beautifully balanced and well-crafted cross-regional blend, this has a lot of finesse and the potential for substantial ageing." 07/19

100 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "This new Special Bin shiraz is stunning and has such wildly deep and dark fruit, in particular very rich dark cherries and plums and plenty of attractively spicy oak on offer here. Intense and packed with youthful fruit. There’s an entrancing build of really fine tannin, carrying pure, pristine and deep-set flavors of blackberries and ripe dark cherries. The finish is carried on incredibly long, muscular and velvety tannins. Such power and elegance, really setting a new style. This is exceptional. A glorious new rung at the top of the Australian wine ladder. 51% Clare, 49% Barossa, two single plots blended and matured in French oak for 18 months. Seductively drinkable now, but this will live for decades. Best from 2028." 07/20

19 Points, Richard Hemming MW, JancisRobinson.com: "That signature oak is in absolutely full effect on the nose. Fruit follows on the palate, but there's a wonderful sanguinous quality too, which is very much in the mould of northern Rhône red. Top quality, impeccable polish and intensity without losing a sense of balance and authenticity. (RH) (Drink between 2022-2042)" 03/21