Just a few days ago, I wrote about the Penfolds Thomas Hyland bargain wines– now here are more from another line of wines — Koonunga Hill – that are just as tasty and just as affordable! Seems like Penfolds is a good go-to in these price conscious times!

As far as I can tell, Koonunga Hill is just the name of the line, not a reference to an actual place. Or, rather, it may be an actual place, but it’s not a designation of the source of the grapes in the wines.

These wines are officially from South Australia, which means they can encompass grapes from premium regions like Barossa, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra (among many others) as well as the vast quantity of bulk wine grapes grown in the Lower Murray Zone.

However they do it, Penfolds has put together a range of very tasty, easy to drink and easy to like wines that are just $12 a bottle — and are often found for less than that. Enjoy!

Penfolds 2007 Chardonnay South Australia Koonunga Hill ($12). A great bargain for its full-bodied, aromatic tropical fruit — pineapple, melon — and peachy character, with touches of cream and vanilla on the lightly citrusy finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-14)

Penfolds 2007 Shiraz Cabernet South Australia Koonunga Hill ($12). Fragrant and rich, with loads of red berry aromas and flavors accented with chocolate, light peppery spice and a smooth, plummy, toasty finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-14)

Penfolds 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon South Australia Koonunga Hill ($12). It’s tough to find a likable $12 Cabernet, so well done, Penfolds! Concentrated black cherry and plum character is accented with minty herbs, vanilla and toast, and even shows some depth on the smooth finish. Easy to like. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.