Log in / Sign up Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay 2019
Launched in 1998 with the 1995 vintage, Yattarna is the result of one of the most comprehensive, focused, and highly publicised wine development projects ever conducted in Australia. The aspiration and independence of mind across generations of Penfolds winemakers inspired the ambition to create a white wine that would set the standard for ultra-fine Australian chardonnay.
Selectively sourcing only the very best Chardonnay fruit from cool-climate regions, coupled with clever winemaking, the style continues to evolve. Yattarna reflects Penfolds' patience and continued commitment to its original goal, its very name being drawn from the local indigenous language, meaning ‘little by little, gradually. Each vintage provides the opportunity to further raise the quality bar.
Pronounced, complex flint/cordite with underlying citrus notes: grapefruit pith, lemon zest/lemon granita. Toasted brioche, almond biscotti, and cashew provide the aromatic allure. There is a lovely chariness to the oak, well-integrated into the fruit. Playing a supporting role rather than appearing to be an overtly dominant feature. Subtle hints of briny oyster shells and fresh sea spray reinforce the cool-climate fruit sourcing.
At the core lies bright citrus fruits, with grapefruit and waxy lemon rind leading the way. There is a purity of fruit on the palate, very flavoursome, and varietally correct. Mouth-watering acid provides a lingering finish. Creamy phenolics point to the perfect integration of fruit and high-quality French oak. Perhaps a more complex Yattarna upon release than in previous years. There is a wonderful dichotomy between the complexity displayed on the nose and the absolute purity of fruit on the palate. A very complete wine.
