2002 Penfolds Bin 138

[wineguruchgo]

GSM (Grenache, Syrah & Mouvedre)

Looking at the color I would have thought there was a greater amount of Shiraz in here than the 29% stated on the lable. I figured it would be a lighter style because of the 44% Grenache, but what style is ever light coming from the Aussies?

The fact that it has 27% Mouvedre accounts, I think, for the color and bulk in the glass.

It is one of the easiest drinking wines I have had in a very long time. It's like velvet and reminds me, with the structure, of a Brunello for 1/3 the price!


I'm getting a little hint of alcohol on the nose (reasonable 14.5%) and deep berry fruit with a hint of earthy notes like clove or nutmeg.

The alcohol disapates almost immediately and the deep berry fruit is evident in the long lasting finish.

The tannins are there but they don't hurt you. Although, I did go grab a glass of water because I wasn't eating food when consumming it.

This would be a perfect glass of wine to bring to any holiday party.

I paid $18.79 for the bottle in my slightly higher Mom and Pop supermarket. You would probably pay a buck or two less in a chain.