Penfolds Bin 600 Cabernet Shiraz 2019

This Californian version of the Great Australian Blend, combining Cabernet Sauvignon with Shiraz (grown from Penfolds’ South Australian vine cuttings) strikes immediate notes of familiarity. There’s its spicy nose and easy harmony on the palate, seamlessly melding savoury comfort over a melange of rich red, blue and black fruit. Each component does its necessary work – the Cabernet bringing chew and texture and Shiraz giving a comforting cuddle until the blackberry grunt returns to deliver a stern final bass note. Drinking window: 2022-2034. Score – 95. (David Sly, decanter.com, July 20, 2022)