At a glance

Producer

Penfolds

Region

South Australia

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$500-$900 USD per bottle (retail/auction, 2024)

Tasting profile

Cassis, blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco leaf, graphite, hints of eucalyptus, roasted coffee, leather, and integrated oak.

Evolution: Primary fruit resolved into secondary/tertiary flavors—dried black fruit, earth, complex savory notes.

At peak: At peak, expected to display complex layering, persistent finish, harmonious structure; resolved tannins and elegance.

Structure

Acidity

Medium+; provides fresh lift despite age

Tannins

Firm, refined; now integrated and silky

Alcohol

Typically 14-14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Intended for long-term cellaring; 20-25 years from vintage, but best before 2026 due to tertiary development.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2017 to 2022

Optimal window

2012 to 2024

Current status

Approaching late maturity but still holds structure; possibly at peak or slightly past.

Current condition

Well-cellared bottles are drinking beautifully now, with softened tannins and developed tertiary notes. Should be consumed within 1-3 years for best experience.

Penfolds Bin 707 is built for longevity, with robust structure and significant oak regime. The 2002 vintage was classic and cool, aiding freshness and long-term cellaring. At 22 years, most bottles will be slightly past peak or just at the tail end, with pristine storage key to full expression.

Food pairing

Best with dry-aged beef, roasted lamb, hard cheeses, or savory mushroom dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The wine is 23 years old and has firm, refined tannins that are now integrated and silky, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its complexity and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 4/10

Standard large-scale production of the early 2000s; Penfolds historically utilized conventional viticulture and winery practices at this time. More recent improvements (post-2010) do not apply retroactively to 2002.

Bin 707 2002 predates most modern sustainability efforts. At the time, Australian wine industry had not widely adopted certifications or notable energy/water-saving practices on a per-cuvée basis. Packaging is heavy and uses significant materials. Global shipping increases environmental impact. No sustainability certifications apply to this vintage. Recent Penfolds releases reflect better awareness, but 2002 is low by modern standards.