The 2024 Meadowbank Chardonnay is one of Tasmania’s benchmark cool-climate Chardonnays, crafted by Peter Dredge from mature P58 clone vines planted in the Derwent Valley during the late 1980s. Produced with a minimal intervention philosophy — including whole-bunch pressing, wild fermentation and maturation in French oak (around 10% new) on lees for nine months — the wine combines concentration, minerality and precision in a style that has become synonymous with Meadowbank. The nose is intensely expressive and finely detailed, revealing white peach, lemon curd and grapefruit zest layered with citrus blossom, crushed rock and subtle flinty reduction. There are savoury notes of toasted almond, oatmeal and gentle pastry richness, while the cool Tasmanian climate gives the wine remarkable lift and freshness.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a beautifully textured yet tightly focused structure. Citrus and stone fruit flavours are supported by saline minerality, creamy lees texture and vibrant natural acidity that drives the wine effortlessly across the palate. Despite the richness of the vintage, the wine remains chiselled and energetic, with a rocky, slaty tension carrying through to a long, savoury and persistent finish.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the standout modern Australian Chardonnays — combining Tasmanian purity and acidity with genuine depth and complexity. Compared to broader, heavier Chardonnay styles, Meadowbank offers far more precision, minerality and finesse, sitting stylistically somewhere between premium Yarra Valley Chardonnay and high-quality white Burgundy. The 2024 vintage is especially impressive, with a return to healthier yields bringing both concentration and balance. It’s already incredibly compelling with a little air, but will comfortably reward cellaring through 2035+ as it develops further nutty, honeyed and savoury complexity. Exceptional with lobster, roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes, scallops or mature cheeses.
