Penfolds, Bin 169 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra 2022

The Bin 169 is Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra and matured in French oak. The 2022 Bin 169 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon is succulent and fresh. Certainly, it is powerfully structured and concentrated but manages vitality and detail. It is Coonawarra more than anything, and in a great, ferruginous, pure sort of way. In terms of context, I like this vintage as much as the 2010 vintage, which I view to be the greatest Bin 169 made since its inception in 2008. I note that I have historically given the 2019 a higher score the 2021; however, on other occasions have scored it several points lower. Different bottles, different environments. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Stylistically, this cuvée tends to be viewed as an elegant iteration of Cabernet Sauvignon, within the context of the collection. This is true, to a certain extent. However, it is possessed of imposing structure and firm tannins, the impact of which is softened in the Bin 707 due to its élevage in American oak. This rigid, imposing, tannin structure of the Bin 169 is indicative of the style inherent in Coonawarra, and it sits well within the wine. While I prefer French oak influence in Cabernet generally, I find the Bin 169 wine has less flesh and less cushioning than its sibling 707 and will evolve in a leafier, "cigar box" direction. They are quite different styles, with distinct futures ahead of them.

• Drinking Window: 2024 - 2042
• Reviewer Name: Erin Larkin
• Review Date: July 2024