Tasting Notes - Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 1996 (Recommended)

Finally, a 1996 vintage Bin series that gets near the hype of the vintage year. Very solid and balanced 12 year old, and particularly so in the context of a $14 wine upon release. Light and fragrant berry and cherry fruits on the nose, overlayed with what I'd describe as a talcum powder character. Really nice lift, and belies its age. Light again to taste but very alive. Light berry fruits early but the palate really gets carried by zingy / buzzy acid before a late kick of dark berries and perhaps a lick of oak. Defines 'balance.' Drink over 2008 and early 2009.