Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay 2016 1.5L

Product Description

Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay 2016 is the epitome of Australian winemaking excellence, a flagship wine born from the pursuit of perfection. Launched in 1998, Yattarna was the result of one of the most ambitious wine development projects in the country, with the aim of crafting a Chardonnay that would rival the world’s finest. The 2016 vintage continues to build on this legacy, reflecting the evolution of the style while maintaining its foundational commitment to quality, finesse, and elegance.

Yattarna is sourced from the best cool-climate regions in Australia, including Tasmania, Henty, Adelaide Hills, and Tumbarumba. These areas provide the ideal terroir for producing a Chardonnay with complex layers of flavour, from fresh citrus and stone fruits to richer textures and subtle oak influence. The fruit is carefully selected from multiple vineyards, handpicked to ensure only the finest berries are used. Fermented in French oak with wild yeasts, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and regular stirring of the lees, contributing to its creamy texture and elegant mouthfeel. The 2016 vintage, with its careful maturation and unique combination of fruit regions, is poised to age beautifully, offering exceptional longevity with peak drinking between now and 2035.

Maker

Penfolds, one of Australia’s most iconic and respected wineries, has been at the forefront of winemaking for over 170 years. Renowned for its history of innovation and commitment to quality, Penfolds consistently produces wines that set the benchmark for Australian viticulture. Established in 1844 by Dr. Christopher Penfold, the winery has evolved from its humble beginnings into a symbol of excellence, with an unparalleled portfolio of wines. Penfolds’ winemakers are continually inspired to push the boundaries of winemaking, crafting wines that reflect the richness and diversity of the country’s best wine regions.

The team at Penfolds draws on a rich tradition while embracing modern winemaking techniques to create wines of exceptional character and complexity. With access to some of the most prestigious vineyards across Australia, Penfolds sources premium fruit from regions such as the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and the Adelaide Hills, employing cutting-edge techniques to ensure each wine is a true reflection of its terroir. Yattarna Chardonnay is a perfect example of the winery’s dedication to producing wines that are world-class, with each vintage representing an evolution of the style and a continued pursuit of perfection.

Philosophy

Penfolds’ winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that exceptional wines come from a balance of tradition and innovation. With a commitment to excellence and attention to detail, the winemaking team ensures that each wine is crafted to reflect the best of what Australia has to offer. The winery’s philosophy embraces sustainable practices, from the vineyard to the bottle, ensuring that each vintage is a true expression of its terroir.

Yattarna Chardonnay, in particular, represents Penfolds' desire to create a world-class white wine that competes on the international stage. The team at Penfolds is dedicated to sourcing the finest fruit from cool-climate regions and employing meticulous winemaking techniques to produce a wine that is both elegant and complex. With a focus on long-term aging potential and balance, Yattarna is crafted with patience and a hands-off approach to let the wine evolve naturally, ensuring that it will continue to develop in the bottle for years to come.

Tasting Notes

Nose
Citrus, White Peach & Subtle Oak
A bouquet of citrus fruits, particularly lemon zest and lime, followed by the soft sweetness of white peach and a touch of almond. Subtle oak nuances add complexity, with hints of lightly toasted French oak adding depth to the aromatic profile.

Palate
Rich, Complex & Balanced
Rich and full-bodied, yet beautifully balanced by its crisp acidity. Flavours of ripe citrus, stone fruits, and green apple are complemented by a silky mouthfeel, with the oak contributing a creamy texture and layers of complexity. The wine is structured, with a lively, mineral-driven backbone that carries the fruit flavours gracefully across the palate.

Finish
Long, Elegant & Lively
The finish is long and elegant, with a lingering minerality that reflects the wine's cool-climate origins. Subtle spice from the oak complements the fruit and adds a layer of sophistication, leaving a clean, refreshing aftertaste that invites another sip. The wine's bright acidity ensures a lasting finish that will only improve with age.

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania, Adelaide Hills
Vintage - 2016
Bottle Size - 1.5L
ABV - 13.5%