2020 Bin 138 Barossa Valley Shiraz/Grenache/Mataro, Penfolds, South Australia

The Grenache really sings here, giving the Shiraz a run for its money, and there is very attractive large-grained tannin too. Delicious grip and purity, with superb length too. This delivers very impressive satisfaction at such a young age, and represents a smart buy in the Penfolds range

Rich but also measured and balanced, this muscular blend presents lots of textural pitch and roll in its substantial frame, bound by firm oak and tight tannins. Mataro’s barbecued brisket meatiness bites immediately on entry, but then softer tones of bright plum and raspberry from the Grenache and Shiraz start to shine through. The concentration is what you’d expect of this Penfolds staple, and it will last a long time in the cellar.

Vivid ruby. Floral-accented aromas of dark berries and cherry cola, plus a spicy topnote and a hint of smokiness. Juicy, expressive and open-knit blackberry, candied plum and kirsch flavors, along with a discreet touch of cracked pepper. Velvety and approachable, given some air, delivering a smooth blend of power and vivacity and finishing with fine clarity and gentle tannic grip. All large French oak barrels, 12.5% of them new.

A blend of 65% Syrah, 29% Grenache and 6% Mataro, the 2020 Bin 138 Shiraz-Grenache-Mataro is aromatically spicy and exciting, with peppered raspberry, star anise, strawberry and humbug through the finish. It's a really lovely, supple, delicious wine. There is polish and shape here. Early-ish drinking recommended to capture the vivacity and life of the fruit.