Meadowbank Riesling 2023 6 x 750ml Hop Vine & Still

Introducing the Meadowbank Riesling 2023, the latest release from a lineage of award-winning vintages that have captivated wine enthusiasts and critics alike. With a sensational 98-point score from James Halliday, this vintage continues Meadowbank’s tradition of excellence. This is no ordinary Riesling; it’s a complex, vibrant expression of Tasmania’s cool-climate terroir, brimming with tropical and citrus flavours, perfect for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.

Key Information and Highlights:

• Region: Derwent Valley, Tasmania, Australia
• Variety: Riesling (German clones and old vines planted in 1974)
• Vintage: 2023
• Fermentation: Split between stainless steel tanks and old French oak barrels
• Residual Sugar: Low (off-dry style)
• Critic Scores:
  • 98 points by James Halliday (Weekend Australian Top 100 Wines)
  • 95+ points by Gary Walsh (The Wine Front)

Producer Background: Meadowbank, located in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley, is a vineyard steeped in history and known for producing exceptional cool-climate wines. Established in 1974, the vineyard benefits from its old Riesling vines and the expert guidance of Gerald Ellis and Peter Dredge. Their innovative winemaking techniques, combined with the unique terroir of Tasmania, consistently produce Rieslings that are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and aging potential.

Flavour Profile:

• Appearance: Pale straw with green highlights, showcasing its youth and vibrancy.
• Nose: A captivating bouquet of tropical fruits, lemon/lime zest, and white flowers, underpinned by hints of honey and a subtle minerality.
• Palate: Zingy and mouth-watering, with intense flavours of passionfruit, lime, and green apple. The palate is beautifully textured with a chalky grip and a touch of residual sweetness, balanced by high acidity. The finish is long, pure, and refreshingly crisp, with a hint of ginger spice adding complexity.
• Conclusion: A Riesling of remarkable intensity and precision, offering a delightful interplay of sweetness and acidity. Perfect for immediate enjoyment but with the structure to evolve gracefully over the next decade or more.

Inspiring Food Pairing Ideas: The 2023 Meadowbank Riesling is a versatile food companion. Pair it with fresh seafood like seared scallops or grilled prawns, where its acidity will cut through the richness. It also complements spicy Asian dishes such as Thai green curry or Szechuan chicken, and its zingy finish is a delightful match for citrus-based desserts like lemon tart or key lime pie. For a simple yet elegant pairing, enjoy it with a platter of soft cheeses and fresh fruit.

This is a Riesling that promises to be a standout in any collection, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for extraordinary aging.