2018 Reserve Bin 00A Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
TA 7.1 g/l, pH 3.06. Eight months in French oak barriques (40% new, 35% one-year-old, 25% seasoned). The Adelaide Hills enjoyed above average rainfall from winter until early summer. From January, the rainfall steadily decreased with only half the average falling between New Year and vintage. There was only one significant frost event on 7 November, but this was largely controlled by sprinkler mitigation systems across the region. A hailstorm on 29 October caused some damage to canopies, however this weather event did not have a significant impact on the crop. Summer was warm, especially through January and February with 12 summer days above 35 °C (95 °F). The elevation of the region protected the grapes from extremes that were experienced elsewhere. A dry and orderly vintage provided excellent parcels of Chardonnay harvested across the region. Less obvious reduction. This is more reserved now than it used to be, especially relative to Yattarna, which is quite open in this Collection. A little reserved and tight at the moment with much less obvious juice than the 311. Stone fruits and something rather severe at the moment. Finishes just a little suddenly for now. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The Adelaide Hills 2018 Reserve Bin 18A Chardonnay is plump and round on the palate, yet it shows a delicacy and litheness that's remarkably appealing. Pear and melon notes are accented by wood spice, hints of cinnamon and nutmeg (40% new oak), then finish soft and easy. It's the Meursault of the Penfolds Chardonnay lineup, ripe and lush, without the crisp, cool-climate acids that mark the Yattarna.
This delves into a very rich and attractive place with such intense lemon and ripe-peach character on offer. The palate has a taut, composed and very linear feel with super intense and seamless texture. Acidity wraps the finish tight. Pithy resolve here. Drink or hold.
About the producer
Penfolds is Australia’s most famous wine producer, known best for their iconic top wine, Grange. First produced commercially in 1952, Grange has since gone on to become one of the world’s most famous fine wines. In 2001, the wine was listed as an Australian heritage icon.