2021 Penfolds - Yattarna Chardonnay - Adelaide Hills

Decanter.com – 97 pts – TG: *Taking its bin number for the 144 trial wines made before this multi-regional, cool-climate Chardonnay debuted with the 1995 vintage, Yattarna (an indigenous word meaning gradually), now sits confidently and comfortably as the white companion to Grange and Bin 707. This vintage, a blend of mainly Tasmania fruit with parcels from Tumbarumba and Adelaide Hills, is like a coiled spring: tight and reserved, quivering with latent power. The nose eventually opens in the glass to reveal gunpowder, candied grapefruit and sea spray, which continue on the streamlined but generous palate. An arrow-straight acid drive pierces sweet clementine flesh, lemon posset and rich almond nougat, cloaked by fresh toasted oak (nine months in French barriques, 70% new) which will settle with bottle age. Complex, layered and with beautiful texture, this is a delicious Yattarna that will improve over time. Made by Penfolds' white winemaker Kym Schroeder (…).* - 06/2023

JancisRobinson.com – 17+/20pts – JR: *From vineyards in Tasmania, Tumbarumba and Adelaide Hills. Aged for nine months in French oak barriques (70% new). The 2021 vintage saw a return to normal yields and weather patterns after the two previous vintages were affected by extreme conditions. Mild summer and generally cool conditions over harvest allowed a long hang time. TA 7.08 g/l, pH 3.1. Broad, deep-flavoured nose without too much of the much-vaunted struck-match character. There is drive and a burgundian build here. Superior stuff. Already a pleasure to drink with great balance and prospects, though at the moment it’s not that long.* - 06/2023

Vinous.com – 96 pts – AH: *This beautifully expressive 2021 Chardonnay Yattarna (made with fruit from Tasmania, Tumbaramba and Adelaide Hills) is a masterpiece with powerful and beautifully composed rockmelon, peach skin and white nectarine fruti with a lavish yet well-integrated oak backbone. There is a beautiful balance and overall integration between fresh, energetic, youthfull acidity and a rich core of vibrant citrus flavors. Tightly coiled and artfully refined, it slowly unfurls in the glass to reveal more nutty/cereal coplexity over a long and sustained finish. Stunning.* - 07/2023