Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay

Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay: A Symphony of Cool Climate Excellence

Discover the Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay, a superb expression of modern Australian winemaking that artfully showcases the purity and finesse of cool-climate fruit. This exceptional wine truly reflects the Penfolds winemakers’ mantra: "We always go where the fruit grows best – for the style." The 2022 vintage, much like its esteemed sibling Yattarna, presents captivating lemon and lime aromas and a distinct mineral acid backbone, beautifully enhanced by barrel fermentation and careful maturation in new and seasoned French oak.

Since 1844, Penfolds has carved an unparalleled reputation for quality, consistency, and innovation in Australian winemaking. While famed for its reds, Penfolds' commitment to crafting white wines of equivalent distinction is exemplified by the Bin 311 Chardonnay. This wine embodies a cutting-edge approach, meticulously sourcing fruit from some of Australia’s premier cool-climate regions – Tasmania, Tumbarumba, and the Adelaide Hills. This multi-regional blending allows for the creation of a complex, layered Chardonnay that balances vibrant fruit character with structural elegance. Often affectionately referred to as "Baby Yattarna," Bin 311 offers a more accessible yet equally compelling insight into Penfolds' mastery of this noble grape.

Tasting Notes: An Elegant Composition of Flavour and Texture

The Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay 2022 is a wine of considerable charm and sophistication, engaging the senses from the outset.

• Colour: It pours a delicate pale straw with attractive lime green hues, visually suggesting its freshness and cool-climate origins.
• Nose: The bouquet is exhilarating, immediately living up to its "Baby Yattarna" association. The advantages of multi-regional blending are clearly apparent, with each distinct area contributing its unique nuance to the final, harmonious blend. Notes of struck flint and a steely minerality are a clear nod to the Tasmanian component, lending a sophisticated, almost European accent. Subtle white stone fruit, perhaps white peach and nectarine, alongside hints of cured lemon, are suggestive of the Adelaide Hills contribution. From the high-altitude vineyards of Tumbarumba come bright lime, zesty lemon, and a distinct wet stone minerality. A delicate suggestion of Tahitian lime zest ‘oil’ adds an intriguing, almost exotic note, beautifully tempered by a lemon curd or delicate pastry sweetness that provides a comforting bakery warmth.
• Palate: The palate is an exemplar of the modern Penfolds Chardonnay style – elegant, refined, yet with ample presence. Lovely cool-climate fruit provides satisfying palate weight without any sense of heaviness. Flavours of honeydew melon, crisp white peach, and subtle notes of cashew and nougat drive the flavour profile, creating a delightful interplay of fruit and creamy texture. A trademark Penfolds minerality runs like a seam through the wine, supported by soft, integrated acidity that lends vibrancy and length. The phenolics are well-judged – grippy and textured – melding seamlessly with the influence of fine-grained French oak, which contributes structure and subtle spicy notes rather than overt woodiness. This is a wine that is undeniably punching well above its weight division, offering complexity and poise. It is drinking beautifully now but possesses the structure and balance to hold for a decade or more for those who appreciate a more developed and tertiary expression of Chardonnay.

Serving Suggestions for Optimal Enjoyment

To fully appreciate the nuanced aromatics and textural finesse of the Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay, serve chilled but not overly so – ideally between 10-13°C (50-55°F). Over-chilling can mute its delicate complexities. While it is expressive upon release, allowing it to breathe for a short period in the glass can further enhance its aromatic profile. Use generously sized Burgundy-style glasses with a wider bowl to allow the aromas to gather and to appreciate the wine's elegant structure.

Detailed Food Matches: A Versatile Companion for Fine Cuisine

The elegance, minerality, and balanced acidity of Bin 311 Chardonnay make it a versatile partner for a wide range of dishes.

• Seafood and Shellfish: This is a classic pairing. Consider pan-seared scallops with a lemon butter sauce, grilled king prawns, baked cod with herbs, or a delicate crab linguine. Its bright acidity cuts through richness beautifully.
• Roast Chicken and Turkey: A perfectly roasted chicken, perhaps with a tarragon stuffing, or a festive roast turkey would be wonderfully complemented by this Chardonnay. Its texture and subtle oak notes harmonise well with poultry.
• Creamy Pasta Dishes: Pasta dishes with creamy sauces, such as a classic carbonara (made authentically without too much cream), or a fettuccine with mushrooms and a light cream sauce, would pair delightfully.
• Salads with Substance: Think of a classic Caesar salad, a goat's cheese and beetroot salad, or a chicken and avocado salad. The wine's acidity will provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Lightly Spiced Asian Cuisine: Dishes with subtle spice, such as a mild Thai green curry with chicken or prawns, or Vietnamese summer rolls, can work well, with the wine's fruit character providing a pleasing balance.

Cheese Pairing Recommendation:

For a cheese pairing that would beautifully complement the Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay, seek out a British Goat's Cheese that is relatively fresh and creamy, yet with a distinct citrusy tang. A young, soft-ripened goat's cheese, such as a Rosary Ash or a Golden Cross (when not too mature), would be an excellent choice. The bright acidity and mineral notes of the Chardonnay will cut through the creaminess of the cheese, while the cheese’s tangy, lemony notes will echo the wine's citrus profile, creating a refreshing and harmonious combination.

Acclaim from the Critics:

The Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay consistently receives high praise from respected wine critics, underscoring its exceptional quality and style:

• 96 Points - Tina Gellie
• 18/20 Points - Matthew Jukes
• 95 Points - Dave Brookes
• 94 Points - Ned Goodwin
• 94 Points - Jamie Goode

The Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay is a wine of great finesse and character, offering a captivating journey through Australia's finest cool-climate vineyards. It is a testament to Penfolds' dedication to crafting Chardonnays of world-class standing.