Penfolds Bin 138 Shiraz Grenache Mataro 2018

Winery Background and History

Penfolds, established in 1844 in Adelaide by Christopher and Mary Penfold, has evolved into one of Australia’s most esteemed producers. Now part of Treasury Wine Estates, it draws upon a rich legacy of pioneering winemaking, including its flagship Grange. The winery’s Bin series, introduced in the mid-20th century, reflects Penfolds’ commitment to blending regional character, vine age, and stylistic consistency. Bin 138, introduced as a Bin in 1998 and based on “Old Vine” material, showcases heritage varietals from Barossa’s oldest vineyards and exemplifies both tradition and innovation 

Producer and Wine Maker

The Bin 138 is crafted by Penfolds’ in-house winemaking team under the leadership of Chief Winemaker Peter Gago. The blend benefits from decades of expertise—selecting fruit from ancient Barossa vineyard sites and blending Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro to balance varietal purity with regional richness. The team adheres to traditional fermentation and aging methods while ensuring Penfolds’ signature consistency and smooth evolution across vintages 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

All fruit for Bin 138 is sourced from century-old vines in the Barossa Valley, a region with diverse, ancient soils and a warm Mediterranean climate ideal for rich red varieties. Winter brings moisture and coolness, while hot, dry summers foster intense ripeness. These conditions yield intense fruit character from Shiraz, with Grenache and Mataro adding complexity and breadth 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Each varietal is fermented and matured separately, then blended post-maturation. The wine spends 12–15 months in seasoned French and American oak hogsheads, allowing varietal expression and oak integration while preserving freshness. This method reinforces structure and complexity without over-oaking the wine 

Tasting Notes

Medium-deep crimson in colour. On the nose, evocative aromas of blackberry pastille, raspberry, herbs, and shellac. The palate is dense and juicy, with abundant quince, blackberry, and raspberry fruits, mingled with ironstone and fine, lacy tannins. It offers authentic Barossa character with meaty, demi-glacé complexity. Elegant, rich, and balanced, showing both early appeal and potential for development 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, rosemary-roasted beef, or slow-cooked stews, where its savory depth complements rich meats. Also excellent with spiced game, hard cheeses, and charcuterie featuring cured meats and black pepper — matching the wine’s fruit richness, structure, and complexity beautifully

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C (60–64 °F). Decanting for 30–60 minutes is recommended to allow aromas to open. Use a large red wine glass, such as a Bordeaux-style stemware, to concentrate the wine’s layered aromas and complexity

Storage and Aging Potential

Cellar between 12–15 °C in stable, dark conditions. Drinkable now, but will age gracefully through to 2035. Over time, flavors will evolve toward tertiary notes—earth, leather, spice—while retaining elegance and balance 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Shiraz 68 %

Grenache 22 %

Mataro (Mourvèdre) 10 % 

ABV

14.5 % 

Scores

• Wine Advocate – 92 Points