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. RP
It delivers scents of struck match and lingering campfire smoke, followed by almost peachy-ripe layers of fruit, all backed by vibrant notes of citrus and pineapple. It's medium to full-bodied and almost creamy in texture without being fat or lush, as it's drawn tight around a gentle spine of acid that lingers elegantly on the finish. Most tasters (myself included) wouldn't guess that this was aged in 86% new French oak. RP
$668
Penfolds Reserve Bin 21A Chardonnay 2021
RP
97₊
JH
97
JS
96
A creamy and layered white with sliced apples, pears, nougat, and creme brulee aromas and flavors. Lots going on but rather reserved at this stage. Medium to full body. Layered palate. Some cooked pear at the end. Steely finish. Seamless. JS