Mourvedre, also known as mataro, was introduced to Australia during the 1830s. While extensively planted in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Bandol in France, it is believed to have originated from either Mataro in Catalonia, or Murviedro near Valencia, Spain. Mourvedre is dark in colour, smells of Provencal herbs and spices and has plenty of tannin stuffing. This is a wine varietal greatly valued by Penfolds winemakers for its blending attributes; toning down the exuberant qualities of shiraz, while adding overall complexity and palate grip. The contemporary Bin 2 style is based on warmer vineyard sites like the Barossa Valley and is aged in older oak to emphasise just how well the spicy savouriness of mourvedre complements the plush richness of shiraz.