Forget the heavy, buttery Chardonnay stereotype — Penfolds Bin 311 is a refreshing reminder of how modern Australia approaches white wine: crisp, balanced, and quietly luxurious.
Bin 311 is sourced from Tumbarumba, a cool-climate, high-altitude subregion tucked within New South Wales. Known for its alpine influence and long, slow ripening season, Tumbarumba is one of Australia’s prized Chardonnay-growing regions. The cooler temperatures allow grapes to retain natural acidity and develop nuanced flavour rather than bold or overly ripe fruit.
From the first sip, Bin 311 feels refined yet approachable. Expect a bright citrus backbone — think lemon zest and crisp green apple — followed by subtle layers of white peach, mineral tension, and a whisper of creaminess. A measured touch of French oak adds gentle spice, structure, and texture without overpowering the purity of the fruit.
The palate is clean, focused, and beautifully balanced. A refreshing acidity keeps each sip lively, making this wine food-friendly across a range of pairings. It excels with seafood (especially oysters, grilled prawns, or scallops), sushi, and delicate sashimi — but also plays surprisingly well with Asian or Indonesian dishes like chicken satay, grilled fish, or light coconut-based curries.
What makes Bin 311 standout is its restraint. Instead of relying on weight or oak to make a statement, it's more in line with elegant Burgundy whites than stereotypical bold Australian styles. It’s a bottle for those who appreciate subtlety and harmony.
For wine lovers exploring Australian Chardonnay, Bin 311 represents a turning point — proof that Australia can deliver world-class cool-climate Chardonnay that is both modern and timeless.
