Penfolds Koonunga Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 75cl

Big Cabernet energy, without the drama. Koonunga Hill Cabernet Sauvignon is Penfolds doing what they do best, turning South Australia’s sunshine into dark fruit, firm tannins, and that savoury edge that makes you reach for another sip.

• Appearance: Deep ruby with a purple tint, clear and glossy in the glass.
• Nose: Blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum, with cedar, dried mint, and a little cocoa.
• Taste: Ripe dark berries lead, then come savoury notes like tobacco leaf and mocha. Dry, with fresh acidity and grippy tannins that keep it tight and food-friendly.
• Body: Medium to full-bodied, built for bold flavours.
• Finish: Long and gently drying, with lingering cassis and spice.

If you’ve ever had a Cabernet that felt loud but one-note, this is the fix. The fruit is generous, but it’s backed up by structure, those Cabernet tannins that give it backbone, plus a savoury, slightly earthy streak that makes it feel like a proper red wine, not purple juice.

South Australia is the sweet spot for this style. You get plenty of ripeness, but the wine still holds onto freshness, so it doesn’t feel heavy or sleepy. That balance is what makes it such an easy “house Cabernet” for people who like their reds with some attitude.

It also plays well with food. Anything grilled, roasted, or saucy gets a boost here because the tannins grab onto protein and the dark fruit keeps things juicy. Think burgers, lamb, peppery steaks, mushroom dishes, or hard cheeses that can take a bit of grip.

Penfolds fans love Koonunga Hill because it’s reliable in the best way. Same confident Cabernet profile, same South Aussie swagger, and enough layering, fruit, oak, and savoury spice, to keep your glass interesting all night.

Fun Fact: Penfolds was founded in 1844 by a doctor, Dr Christopher Rawson Penfold, who originally made fortified wine for “medicinal” use. Not mad about how that worked out!