Viniou Reviews
Penfolds’ Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2023 is a modern classic from South Australia, beloved for its vibrant and fruit-driven profile. Crafted predominantly from Chardonnay grapes grown in diverse vineyards across the region, this dry white reveals the house style—generous and approachable—while showcasing the skill of Penfolds’ winemaking team. The 2023 vintage stands out for its clarity and freshness, expressing ripe stone fruits like peach and nectarine alongside citrus zest and subtle nuances of creamy oak, the latter resulting from short maturation in seasoned barrels. The palate is lively yet rounded, with a gentle touch of acidity that frames the fruit, leading to a clean and lingering finish.
South Australia, home to Penfolds, is famed for its ideal viticultural conditions, with temperate climates moderated by cool evening breezes, particularly in regions such as Adelaide Hills and Limestone Coast. This climate ensures gradual grape ripening, preserving natural acidity and producing wines of balanced structure. The soils vary from sandy loams on limestone to ancient clay, offering complexity and minerality to the fruit. Penfolds itself is an iconic producer, steeped in Australian wine heritage since the mid-19th century, continuously celebrated for its commitment to quality, innovation, and consistency.
Koonunga Hill Chardonnay’s bright, fruit-forward profile makes it an excellent partner for a wide array of dishes. Its freshness pairs beautifully with grilled sea bass, poached chicken, or shellfish such as prawns or scallops. Classic accompaniments might include simple pasta with lemon and herbs or a fresh goat’s cheese salad. For a regional twist, try it alongside Australian-caught barramundi or a plate of Moreton Bay bug tails with citrus dressing; the wine’s crisp acidity will balance the richness of the seafood.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Chardonnay chilled but not too cold, ideally between 8 and 10°C. This temperature allows its expressive fruit and balanced texture to fully come to the fore. Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle 15 minutes ahead of serving will help the wine reveal its charming aromas and inviting palate.
