2021 Penfolds Bin 138 Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre (GSM)

Bin 138 is inspired by the blended wines of the Southern Rhône, where shiraz, grenache and mataro (mourvèdre) are used to deft effect to craft full-bodied wines of power and intensity. The fruit for Bin 138 is sourced from old Barossa Valley vines and then matured for 12 to 15 months in seasoned oak hogsheads to showcase clear but harmonious varietal definition. (Penfolds)

96 Points, Ken Gargett - Wine Pilot (July 23")
Always a favourite and what is especially exciting is that, for me, this is the finest 138 yet made. Grenache (50%), Shiraz (44%) and Mataro (6%), it is entirely sourced from the Barossa Valley. A year maturing in a mix of French (10% new) and American (2% new) oak. The colour is a vibrant deep purple and there is an utterly gorgeous nose with depth and early complexity. Blackcurrants, black cherries, warm earth, mocha, new leather, violets and spices, this is taut, balanced, seamless and seductive. Arabica coffee bean notes emerge on the palate, along with a hint of a bitter almond character on the finish. Exemplary structure, very fine tannins and great length, this is a brilliant wine with fifteen to twenty years ahead. It may go even higher. A great 138.

95 Points, Tyson Stelzer
The cool 2021 season has set off Barossa grenache with delightful fragrance and exciting, vibrant acid drive, wonderfully enlarged with the depth, structure and black fruit presence of shiraz and mataro. Dark chocolate oak provides well-executed support, setting off a frame of firm, fine-grained tannins for the long-haul. One of the greatest Bin 138s yet.

94 Points, Andrew Caillard MW - The Vintage Journal
Medium crimson. Fragrant musky plum, blackberry, chinotto, cola aromas. Inky textured and smooth with lovely musky plum, blackberry pastille fruits, some cola notes, fine lacy textures and attractive mid palate viscosity. Finishes silky and long with a fine lacy plume. A lovely fruit driven early drinking style. Drink now – Keep for a while