2024 Eversley Vines Chardonnay $45
After European settlers arrived in the Tamar Valley in the early 1800s, much of the land in the Legana/Bridgenorth area was used for dairy farming, apple orchards, and cattle grazing. But not the small, secluded 9ha lot Matt and Shelley Grant purchased in 2014.
The bush block was set on a ridge with scenic views overlooking the river. It was an ideal place to build a home and raise a family.
Raising vines as well wasn't part of the plan. But life moves in mysterious ways.
This beautifully packaged Chardonnay marks 10 years of Grant family ownership of their Bridgenorth Road property.
The 1.5ha vineyard sprang to life in 2018, with its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir being picked in the COVID-pandemic year of 2021. The couple knew nothing about viticulture when they started, but their third vintage release suggests they quickly made up for lost time.
Oaked and Unoaked expressions of the classic variety were produced in 2024.
The former may well be oaked – it's not stated as such on the label – but there's no doubting this is a very stylish and elegant two-year-old. Oak maturation has been very skilfully managed by the family's contract winemakers on the other side of the valley. The effects are subtle, restrained, harmonious.
If you're into 'struck match' and similar winemaking artefact, the best advice is to look elsewhere.
The warm Tamar Valley typically produces Chardonnays that are richer, punchier and more substantial in structure than those of the Pipers Brook region, for example.
However, climate data indicates the Eversley Vines site is among the coolest of those overlooking the river.
Rather than yellow peach, the dominant Chardonnay fruit flavour is more inclined to be white nectarine. Some subtle honeydew melon and citrus notes add interest to the 2024 vintage. Fine natural acidity makes it easy drinking and food-friendly.
PS: Visitors booking accommodation at the Eversley Vines Guesthouse receive a complimentary bottle of Eversley Vines wine on arrival
Source: Media sample
Last page update: 26 May 2026