Upon its initial release in 1998 (then the 1995 vintage) it was presented to the world as the “White Grange” making the front page of Australia’s national newspapers. A first to this day.
“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”.
Source: Penfolds Website.
Sourced from only the best grapes Tasmania 57%, Tumbarumba 32% and Adelaide Hills 11% have to offer, it has achieved the Penfolds winemaker’s ambitious goal of producing an ultra-fine cool climate Chardonnay that will impress even the most fastidious wine drinkers.
The nose has so much going on, so complex and incredibly inviting. Layers of various citrus, white peach, and gunflint dominate but secondary layers of tangerine peel, and cashews with a whole lot of promise of what’s to come.
The palate exhibits exceptional balance with everything in its place. I get the impression from the first sip that it’s all intentional, with layers of nectarine/tangerine, orange peel, lemon, white peach, gunflint, saline, and apricot with a hint of creaminess and a sensual, velvety mouthfeel without sacrificing acidity. There is a tension with this wine that adds an extra dimension coupled with minerality, exceptional integration and texture, and a very long finish making this a winner.
This wine scores consistently high ratings with the 2017 and 2018 receiving 99 pt and the 2019 and 2020 receiving 98 pt. reflecting its consistently high quality. Drinking well now but will most definitely improve over the next 10 – 15 years. Exceptional Chardonnay with immense potential. I would choose wisely when pairing this. Lobster, crab, and scallops would top the list but lighter chicken dishes would also work well.
I believe this style of Chardonnay stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Vasse Felix Heytesbury 2018 (98 pt) is the only other Australian Chardonnay that gives this a run for its money. Both admirably represent the ‘elegant, restrained Chardonnay with finesse’ category that showcases the new style and standard of Chardonnay coming out of Australia. Please excuse me for adding a wrong vintage photo- cannot locate my 2018 photo. Just for the record, they look identical.
Vine to Table 