Penfolds Reserve Bin A Adelaide Hills Chardonnay 750ml

Very restrained, tightly coiled. Aromas of custard apple, Granny Smiths, white nectarine, pistachios and cashew nuts. The palate has real drive, held together by a core of taught acidity. Stone fruits provide sweetness, white peaches and nectarines. Poached loquats, almond meal and freshly sliced pear. 

Color: Very pale gold with lime green hues

Nose: Restrained upon first pour. Induce awakening via a sprightly decant, or vigorous swirl. Primary white peach and assorted stone fruits give way to tempting scents of fresh crème anglaise/pana cotta. Oak (just) evident, yet impressively integrated (80% new?!) Wafts of struck-match prancing above; intense, smoky barrel-ferment notes lurking below. Complexingly challenging – an abundance of character, yet not saturated; aromatically bedazzling, yet not an assault.

Palate: Adelaide Hills fruit: soaring and intense white peach fruits and defined natural acidity. Barrel-ferment: an interwoven nuttiness (roasted cashew) and pliant tension. Lees contact: crème brûlée notes, volume and a heightened leesy texture. The acidity noted above is not a defining feature – more of a softer/gentler acidity playing a supporting role – complimentary to texture. An expansive palate that grows – propelled by persistent flavours and textural integrity.

Alcohol: 12.5%