(Nov. 9, 2011) — Our much anticipated November tasting features the great Cabernet of Penfolds Bin 707. This is our third tasting in our Penfolds triumvirate, Grange, Yattarna and Bin 707.

Perhaps the best known and most sought after red wine in Australia is Penfolds Grange Hermitage, and Yattarna is at the top of Australian Chardonnay. The Grange, and Yattarna multi region blends share much in common with the Bin 707 Cabernet. All these wines are results of skillful blending and winemaking as opposed to the strict focus of terroir based single vineyard adventures. (Coonawarra and Barossa valley fruit dominate the 707 blend in the recent vintages.)

Bin 707 represents Penfolds Cabernet style at its most intense and rich. It is created from fruit that meets very strict ripeness standards. The scarcity of fruit that meets these demands means that only a small quantity of 707 is produced and Penfolds unwillingness to compromise quality is also revealed in the fact that it is not produced every year. Bin 707 was not made from 1970-75, or 1981, 1995, 2000 or 2003. A structural snapshot of a Bin 707 cabernet would look something like this; immense structure, distinct ripe tannins, sweet deep berry fruit flavours, combined with licorice and chocolate hints. The pronounced smoky American oak characteristics of winemaking are diminished beautifully after the first few years in bottle.

Faced with the shortage of some recent vintages and wanting to present this vertical at its best, we are pouring 7 vintages 1994,1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2005 and 2006. This leaves us with the question, what will the 8th wine in the tasting be? Could it be the very distinct Bin 407, a classic cabernet of great reputation or perhaps something special from our cellar to tweak your interest? Please join us for this luxury Cabernet tasting.

As always with our tastings, this event will be strictly non-smoking, and we request your cooperation in not wearing any scented after-shave or perfume.

Cancellations accepted up to November 4, 2011. See the event form for cancellation contact details. No reservations by phone, please. No confirmations will be issued — you will be contacted only if we are sold out. First come basis. Non-members may attend at guest rates, but preference will be given to members.

Download the event form if you wish to mail in your reservation cheque.