Penfolds Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2024

Winery Background and History

Penfolds, established in Adelaide in 1844, is among Australia’s most iconic wineries. The Koonunga Hill line, named after a Barossa vineyard, embodies Penfolds’ philosophy of delivering quality, consistency, and value. Introduced in the 1970s, the Chardonnay is crafted as a light to medium-bodied expression with primary fruit focus and moderate oak—a dependable, affordable entry point to the Penfolds style  .

Producer and Wine Maker

The wine is produced by Penfolds’ in-house winemaking team under Chief Winemaker Peter Gago. It reflects their multi-region sourcing approach, selecting the best parcels across South Australia to ensure balanced and high-quality consistency vintage to vintage  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are drawn from multiple South Australian regions, leveraging the diverse climates and soils—from warm inland areas to cooler sites—allowing Penfolds to balance ripeness with freshness and structural nuance  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2024 Chardonnay is lightly oaked: fermented in small wood (French oak) barrels and likely blended with stainless steel–fermented portion for freshness and clarity. The moderate oak provides texture without overshadowing the fruit  .

Tasting Notes

Pale straw with green tinge, the nose offers citrus blossom, roasted cashews, toasted sourdough, pistachio nougat, exotic spices, flint, and wet stone hints. On the palate, lemon curd, ruby grapefruit, sweet nougat, and stone fruits provide a generous, creamy texture with balanced acidity and a refined oak overlay  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal with light dishes like seafood, mixed fried fish, grilled fish, stir-fried vegetables, and asparagus salads. The freshness and subtle oak match well with poultry, fish, and soft cheeses  .

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at approximately 11–13 °C. A medium-sized white wine glass works best to preserve its delicate aromatics and refreshing palate  .

Storage and Aging Potential

Drink now through 2028 for optimal enjoyment. The wine’s freshness, balanced acidity, and moderate oak integration support short to mid-term cellaring  .

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Chardonnay (single varietal)  .