Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay 2018

The Bin 311 Chardonnay is multi-region Chardonnay that truly reflects the winemakers’ mantra ‘we always go where the fruit grows best and where it best suits style’. Bin 311 was first vintaged in 2005. True to House Style, Bin 311 Chardonnay takes advantage of the classification system and flow down of high-grade fruit, including material initially earmarked for Yattarna Chardonnay. The style is not based on terroir, but on a high altitude/low latitude cool-climate fruit profile.

In 2018, fruit sourcing moved to multi-regional cool-climate regions; 43% Adelaide Hills, as well as Tumbarumba and Tasmania. In true Bin 311 style, it exhibits lemon/lime aromas and a mineral acid backbone, complemented by barrel fermentation and maturation in seasoned oak. Minimal filtration is employed, preserving elegant fruit flavours. 

This wine is light straw in colour. The nose is full of flavour cover the full spectrum of citrus, grapefruit and white peach. Hints of sherbet, camomile and goats cheese complex the aromatic offer – a chardonnay cast assembled from three States of Australia. The palate first and foremost, on this wine extolls freshness, yet not at the expense of an endearing richness and generosity of flavour. Whilst some may perceive it to be slightly ‘larger-framed’ than in previous years it nevertheless retains trademark Bin 311 mineral acidity and linearity. Rockmelon and white peach fruits are pronounced. Underlying sherbet and fresh lemon tart impressions coupled with a lovely creaminess add to the structural and flavour pool. As always the Bin 311 Chardonnay is outstanding value for its class.