Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay 2020 750ml

Bin 311 Chardonnay truly reflects the winemakers’ mantra of going where the fruit grows best and where it best suits style. In the previous release of Bin 311, fruit sourcing moved to multi-regional cool-climate regions. In true Bin 311 style, not unlike Yattarna, it exhibits lemon/lime aromas and a mineral acid backbone, complemented by barrel fermentation and maturation in mostly seasoned oak. Minimal filtration is employed, preserving elegant fruit flavours.

COLOUR Very pale straw with lime green hues

NOSE Fruit: Fleshy white peach, lemon verbena, a pithy citrus lift and a spray of spring blossom. : A mascarpone creaminess and scents of emulsified toasted cashew and almond nougat.: Subtle flint, wet stone and sea spray. (Granted, a blend from many soils, vineyards, climes. But three states … really?!). Result: Aromatically relaxed – character and style. Complex.

PALATE Very fine, enchantingly endowed with an elegant, ethereal lightness. Yet the fruits are ‘intense’ – white peach and nectarine immediately jump the queue. Textbook aligned geological and cool-climate descriptors – limestone, chalky/talcy minerality, saline(y), quartz. Mouth-watering avec linearity and persistence. Surprisingly, oak hasn’t been mentioned.

PEAK DRINKING Now – 2028 LAST TASTED April 2021