Grapes: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon (Oakville) / 13% Shiraz (South Australia)

This is a truly unique wine from the legend that is Penfolds! Quantum Bin 98 is the continuation of a twenty-year endeavor from when Australian vine cuttings were planted in Californian soil.  Northern and southern hemispheres bring prized cabernet sauvignon from Napa Valley and pedigreed shiraz from South Australia, respectively, into each other’s realm. 

On the nose there is rich malt, bone marrow, and a complex spectrum of dark berries making up the aromatic core. These slowly fuse with notes of blackberry, blueberry, and boysenberry complemented by sugared pastry, cinnamon apple, and piquant punches of mild horseradish cream and Dijon mustard.

A blue-berried wash and glistening film cover the palate with a viscous, supple texture and succulent acidity. Flavors of graphite and hazelnut provide an exotic intrigue, with a whisper of sweetness that grows over time with air.

James Suckling: 98 Points