At a glance

Producer

Penfolds

Region

South Australia

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$10-$15 USD (Wine-Searcher global retail average, 2024; typically $12 at major U.S. retailers)

Tasting profile

Bright blackcurrant, plum, and red berry notes with underlying mint, gentle cedar, and subtle oak spice. Supple palate, gentle tannins, fresh acidity, moderate finish.

Evolution: Will see marginal softening of tannins, slight integration of oak and fruit, but structure and body will not develop significantly beyond 2025. Fruit core will diminish after this period.

At peak: At peak, expect optimal fruit purity, smooth integration of oak, and a pleasing, balanced mid-weight palate.

Structure

Acidity

Medium, providing freshness but not designed for long cellaring

Tannins

Moderate, fine-grained, softening further with a year or two of aging

Alcohol

Medium (typically 13.5-14% ABV, well balanced)

Aging potential

Drink within 3-5 years of vintage; best before 2025

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2024

Optimal window

2021 to 2025

Current status

Ready now; suitable for near-term consumption, can hold a few more years

Current condition

Fresh, fruit-driven, tannins and acidity well integrated; showing primary fruit and approachability

Koonunga Hill is made for early enjoyment, with moderate structure and vibrant fruit. This wine peaks when its fruit is fresh and the tannins are supple (2022-2024). Further aging brings diminishing returns, with fading fruit and less balanced structure past 2025.

Food pairing

Chargrilled steak, lamb chops, roast chicken, barbecue ribs, pizza with robust toppings, burgers, hard cheeses (cheddar, aged gouda). As wine matures, favor leaner meats and dishes with less spice to suit the softening palate.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (20-30 minutes) — Brief decanting helps open the wine and soften any edges, maximizing aromatic expression.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Energy-efficient winery operations, water conservation, vineyard biodiversity initiatives (estate-wide at Penfolds)

Penfolds has invested in sustainability across larger operations, participates in industry programs, but Koonunga Hill is a moderately high-volume SKU not individually focused on environmental leadership.