An epic vintage for this great Cabernet – not only the best 407 ever, but at 97 points, better than almost every vintage of the $300 (and going up!) Bin 707. Caillard says:
Deep colour. Beautifully balanced and characterful, cabernet sauvignon with fragrant blackcurrant leaf, praline, mocha aromas with green pepper/ capsicum notes. Dense and chocolaty with beautiful cassis, inky flavours, looseknit graphite tannins and underlying mocha, roasted chestnut notes. Finishes chocolaty firm, long and sweet with persistent cassis, plum notes. A really strong vintage with a lovely balance between cool and warm expressions of cabernet. Possibly the best Bin 407 ever with intense varietal expression, supple/sinuous textures, superb vinosity/ length and South Australian voice. Can see this lasting for another 20 years plus. A compelling counterpoint to its big brother Bin 707.
The Wine Spectator also rates it the best 407 ever, saying:
Bold and seductive, with accents of dark chocolate-covered espresso bean, fresh sage and licorice to the core of blackberry and plum flavors. The tannins show plenty of polish. Drink now through 2028.
They also rate it as highly as any vintage ever of the Penfolds Bin 389.
At the lowest price in the World, this is a rare opportunity in a top Cabernet collectible.
The Wine Advocate says:
Full, generously fruited and wonderfully forward with firm tannins and lively acidity, it offers a beautiful expression of the best of South Australia Cabernet.
A great 407 – and certainly a bargain compared to anything from California…especially when you consider the track record for aging.